Your First Guide to the Last Long Beach Show & Upcoming PCGS Irvine CA Show (Oct 22-24, 2025)

Think of this as your starter pack for understanding a major shift in the coin collecting world: the end of the Long Beach show era and what’s coming next — the PCGS Irvine CA Show (October 22–24, 2025). If you’re just getting into numismatics, don’t worry — this guide breaks it down in plain, friendly language. No jargon, no fluff. Just the real story behind these events and how you can get the most out of them.

Understanding the End of the Long Beach Show Era

What Happened to the Long Beach Show?

The Long Beach coin show — a beloved tradition for decades — has quietly disappeared from the calendar. No more listings on the PCGS events page. No updates on the Long Beach Expo website. For collectors and dealers, it’s like an old friend moved away without saying goodbye.

But don’t panic. This isn’t the end of coin shows in Southern California. It’s a transition. The reasons? A mix of changing collector habits, venue costs, and how people want to experience events today. Sometimes, even legendary shows need a refresh — or a new home.

Common Misconceptions About Show Discontinuation

• “No more Long Beach means no more coin shows”: Not true! The PCGS Irvine Show is already stepping up. Coin shows aren’t going anywhere — they’re just evolving.
• “The rights to the Long Beach name are lost forever”: Hold on — the name might still be up for grabs. Some promoters are quietly exploring whether they could bring it back under a new format.
• “Attendance is the main reason for cancellation”: It’s part of it, sure. But it’s not the whole story. Venue availability, dealer interest, and even travel trends all play a role.

Getting Started with the PCGS Irvine CA Show

What to Expect at the PCGS Irvine Show

Ready for something fresh? The PCGS Irvine Show (Oct 22–24, 2025) isn’t just a replacement — it’s a reimagining. Here’s what makes it different:

• More space, more options: Up to 50% more booths than usual — that’s over three dozen tables, compared to the typical two dozen. More space means more variety for you to explore.
• Open to everyone: Unlike PCGS’s members-only events, this one’s open to the public. Buy a ticket, walk in, and start exploring. No secret handshake required.
• You won’t go hungry: Food trucks, snack stands — yes, there’ll be food! Dealers and staff get some perks, and PCGS members might get free snacks. Think of it as a perk for showing up early.

If you’ve never been to a coin show, this is a great first stop. It’s welcoming, well-organized, and packed with opportunities to learn and find something cool.

Registration and Ticketing

Don’t wait — spots fill up fast. Here’s how to get your ticket:

1. Go to the PCGS Irvine Show webpage.
2. Pick your ticket: public entry or dealer booth.
3. Fill out the quick form with your info.
4. Pay and check your inbox for your confirmation.

Dealers will get extra details later — like where their table is and setup times — so keep an eye on your email. Pro tip: Book your hotel early if you’re coming from out of town. Irvine fills up fast!

Fundamentals of Modern Coin Shows

The Role of Coin Shows in the Numismatic Community

Think of coin shows as a mix between a market, a classroom, and a reunion — all in one weekend. Here’s what they actually do:

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• Marketplace: Where you can buy, sell, or trade rare coins, old currency, and other collectibles. No online bots — just real people with real stories behind their pieces.
• Networking: Meet other collectors, talk to dealers, and maybe even chat with an expert. Some of the best tips come from casual conversations.
• Learning: Many shows offer talks on grading, history, and investing in coins. It’s like a mini numismatic university — minus the exams.

Key Players and Promoters

Not all shows are run the same way. Knowing who’s behind them helps you understand what to expect:

• IMEX: Focused on both collectors and dealers, IMEX picks solid locations and keeps things running smoothly. They’re a go-to name in the West Coast scene.
• GACC: These folks are exploring new event ideas — and yes, they’ve floated the idea of bringing back the Long Beach show, maybe in a new form. Worth keeping an eye on.

When you see their names, you know you’re in good hands.

Navigating the Future of Coin Shows

Challenges and Opportunities

Running a successful coin show isn’t easy. These events face real hurdles:

• Will people show up? Events need enough interest to justify the space, time, and cost.
• Logistics matter: Parking, venue access, and hotel deals can make or break the experience.
• Who’s the audience? Is it for dealers, beginners, or serious investors? The answer shapes everything.

But here’s the good news — there’s room to grow and improve:

• Fresh formats: More talks, fun exhibits, maybe even a trivia night or grading demo.
• Better locations: Irvine’s a quieter, more accessible spot than downtown Long Beach — and parking’s cheaper.
• Community-first thinking: Shows that listen to collectors tend to stick around longer.

Actionable Tips for Attendees and Dealers

Whether you’re walking in with a shopping list or setting up a booth, here’s how to make it count:

• For Attendees:
  • Book your hotel now — prices go up closer to the show.
  • Bring cash. Many dealers still prefer it, especially for smaller deals.
  • Hit the talks and exhibits. You’ll learn something new — and maybe see a coin worth way more than you thought.
• For Dealers:
  • Pack your best pieces — and something unique. People come looking for finds.
  • Talk to visitors. A friendly “What are you collecting?” goes a long way.
  • Offer a small discount or bonus for first-time buyers. It builds trust — and repeat business.

Common Misconceptions and How to Avoid Them

“Coin Shows Are Only for Experts”

Nope. These events are for anyone curious about coins. You don’t need a degree in numismatics. Bring your questions. Dealers and PCGS graders love helping new collectors get started — seriously.

“All Shows Are the Same”

Not even close. The PCGS Irvine Show is trying something new: bigger space, public access, and more food. That’s different from a members-only event in a smaller hall. Every show has its own vibe.

“Attendance Numbers Are Always Public”

Some shows share numbers. Others don’t — maybe because they’re still figuring things out. Instead of guessing, check the official website or sign up for PCGS newsletters. They usually give updates before and after.

Conclusion

The Long Beach show may be gone, but the spirit of coin collecting carries on — stronger than ever. The PCGS Irvine CA Show (Oct 22–24, 2025) is more than a replacement. It’s a fresh start, built with beginners and seasoned collectors in mind.

Whether you’re hunting for a rare silver dollar, learning how to grade coins, or just soaking up the history, there’s a place for you here. Plan ahead, bring your curiosity, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The next great find — or friendship — could be just a few tables away.

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