By William Shamhart – Numismatic Americana
I’ve been going to coin shows since the late 1970’s, close to 1000 total. From VFW halls to the Staple Arena in Los Angeles, I’ve seen them come and go, from their humble beginnings, to their rise to the top, and with some, their eventual demise. I can say that as I write this, the team at Whitman Expos has put Baltimore on the fast track as the show to attend. In fact, it currently rivals both the January FUN show and the ANA’s summer event.
First off it has a lot going for it. The ease of getting to (three major airports and unparalleled train service), a large choice of lodging (two Marriott’s, 1 Hyatt, 1 Sheraton, 1 Renaissance, and several other smaller boutique hotels) within walking distance, and countless numbers of restaurants to choose from. Everything that an attendee at a show could ask for.
Add to that, a staff that makes the entire experience, for both dealers and collectors alike, very pleasurable. Whitman’s attention to detail is amazing. The security staff is very courteous and professional, the aisles are wide and easy to navigate, the booth setup is first rate, and in addition to all that, Whitman’s expertise in show promoting is the best in the industry in my opinion. Keep in mind that there is a HUGE population of collectors within a 4 hour trip. From Boston to Richmond to Cleveland the trip isn’t that difficult and that brings in the clients.
As far as the show goes, I was personally surprised on two fronts. Christine and I went into the show with an optimistic attitude. From the beginning, at 8 a.m. on Thursday, until we left on Saturday it was non stop. The clients who stopped by our booth were again armed with want lists and check books. Our biggest sellers were U.S. commemoratives from the classic era of the 30’s and GEM Buffalo nickels. Following a close third were GEM type coins.
As has been my feelings lately, whenever we sold a coin I would wonder if we could replace it with another of comparable quality and fairly priced. Well that is where I was pleasantly surprised. With both Christine and I looking for inventory we were able to acquire a nice little group for your consideration. In addition to the GEMS that Christine has listed on the web site we were able to buy and sell, at the show, some great pieces. Included in this list were:
1808 $2.50 PCGS AU 58 CAC
1825 $2.50 NGC MS 64 CAC
1795 $5 NGC MS 60 CAC
1902 $20 NGC PR 64 CAC
But don’t forget about our current offering. It includes some beautiful coins. Some of the highlights are:
1901 5c NGC PR 67 CAC with incredible color
1850 S$1 PCGS MS 64 CAC. A top pop coin in a very collectible area.
1860-O S$1 PCGS MS 64 CAC. An amazing piece, NOT from the Treasury hoard of the 1960’s or the “Chimney hoard” from a few years ago.
1881-S S$1 PCGS MS 66. Wonderful rainbow toning, no doubt from the “Continental Illinois” bank holdings from years ago.
Later this week we will be listing a few VERY special coins. Most will be the finest know, either for the date or type. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And remember…we love to talk coins.
