The Unspoken Secrets of Selling Coins at Shows: What Dealers Won’t Tell You
September 16, 20255 Costly Mistakes New Coin Dealers Make at Shows (And How to Avoid Them)
September 16, 2025
Need to Sell Coins Fast? Here’s the Quickest Strategy That Works
Got a coin show coming up and need to move inventory quickly? I’ve been there. This guide shares the exact steps dealers use to sell coins fast and still turn a solid profit. It’s all about focusing on what buyers want, pricing smart, and keeping negotiations quick and effective.
The 3-Step Formula to Sell Coins Quickly
1. Stock Your Table with These High-Demand Coins
From my experience, these types of coins fly off the table:
- Certified coins (PCGS/CAC) in the $100–$300 range – Graded coins build trust, and this price range feels just right to buyers.
- Better-date Morgans and semi-key raw coins ($5–$50) – Perfect for collectors trying to complete their sets.
- Toned coins (any type) – Their eye-catching colors often lead to quick, impulse sales.
- Junk silver (90%) – Display it prominently to attract buyers looking for bulk deals.
Pro Tip: Fill about 75% of your table with certified coins and 25% with quality raw coins. This mix helps you sell fast without sacrificing profit.
2. Price Strategically for Immediate Action
Pricing can make or break your sales. Here’s how to get it right:
- Anchor to recent auction comps (not price guides) – Buyers trust real-world sales data, so check eBay sold listings.
- Build in 5–10% negotiation buffer – This lets buyers feel they got a deal without cutting too deep into your margin.
- Flag key coins as “firm” – For rare or low-population coins, show a printed CAC price guide to back up your asking price.
3. Master the 10-Second Negotiation
When buyers make low offers, keep it brief and effective:
- Stay silent after stating your price – Let the silence work for you. Often, the buyer will come back with a better offer.
- Use the “boredom tactic” – Glance away briefly. It shifts the pressure back to them.
- Walk away from tire-kickers – A simple “I’ll be here if you change your mind” keeps you focused on serious buyers.
Critical Mistakes to Avoid
Steer clear of these common pitfalls:
- Overpricing common dates – Price junk silver about 10% below online dealers to move it fast.
- Engaging with “free seekers” – Kindly point them elsewhere: “I focus on collector coins—you might have better luck at the back tables.”
- Buying at the show – Unless it’s an absolute steal, concentrate on selling first.
Final Checklist for Fast Sales
Right before the doors open, run through this list:
- ✔️ Place 3–5 “featured coins” (toners or key dates) at eye level.
- ✔️ Print out eBay sold listings for your top items to show market value.
- ✔️ Bring small bills—it encourages buyers to spend more when you can make change.
- ✔️ Start conversations with a simple “What are you collecting?”
Speed Wins
Selling coins quickly at a show comes down to three things: smart inventory, sharp pricing, and confident negotiating. Stick with certified coins in that sweet $100–300 range, base your prices on real sales data, and don’t be afraid to use a little silence. You’ll outsell the unprepared every time. Now get out there and make some sales!
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