The National

[Big Ben]

I am going to the National this year for the first time. (only going on August 7 per my schedule)

Any advice out there for a newbie to the National scene?

[Leon]

Originally Posted by Big Ben

I am going to the National this year for the first time. (only going on August 7 per my schedule)

Any advice out there for a newbie to the National scene?

Wear good walking shoes.
Bring cash.
With only 1 day don't spend too long at each table.
Eat before you go into the Convention Center.
Always ask what the bottom, best price is on EVERY card you buy.

[tbob]

Originally Posted by Leon

Wear good walking shoes.
Bring cash.
With only 1 day don't spend too long at each table.
Eat before you go into the Convention Center.
Always ask what the bottom, best price is on EVERY card you buy.

Good tips Leon, I would only add- bring a pen and paper to write down cards and table numbers. You think you can remember what was where but unless you are Carnak, you won't be able to remember them all. More than once I have been ticked because I couldn't remember which table that T207 Cycle back was at or that E98 blue Coombs, etc. ......

[Leon]

Originally Posted by tbob

Good tips Leon, I would only add- bring a pen and paper to write down cards and table numbers. You think you can remember what was where but unless you are Carnak, you won't be able to remember them all. More than once I have been ticked because I couldn't remember which table that T207 Cycle back was at or that E98 blue Coombs, etc. ......

Good point Bob....I spent hours going back to find this card, about 10 yrs ago....as BCD told me it was a good buy.....and I had forgotten the table number completely. I got it for $200.....and even though it has a spooned out crease (not from me) it presents nicely.....

[Shoeless Moe]

Question for the National pros. Is there any chance of seeing new old items at the National. What I mean is is every dealer there already dealing on Ebay, so it's basically just an Ebay Buy It Now convention, or do collectors who arn't on Ebay set up?

[4815162342]

My advice is to loosen up your schedule; the National is way too big for only one day!

[milkit1]

Do dealers accept credit cards nowadays?

[Leon]

To answer a few questions...from my experiences you absolutely can find new, old stuff. I think I have always been able to add a few pieces to my collection at the National.

As for credit card acceptance.....I wouldn't count on it though a few will accept them. As I said earlier, cash really is your best bet.

[e107collector]

You would most likely get a better deal on a larger $ card by paying with cash.

Most dealers frown upon accepting credit cards because of fees.

Tony

[calvindog]

Originally Posted by e107collector

Most dealers frown upon accepting credit cards because of fees.

And capital gains tax.

[4815162342]

Originally Posted by calvindog

And capital gains tax.

Lol yep

[4815162342]

Originally Posted by jg8422

I went to my 1st National last summer in Baltimore. It was amazing! I was only there for one day, but could have spent 3 days there. It was only a 90 minute drive to Baltimore, which made it even nicer.

Anyone know the locations for the next few Nationals?

I think the next couple will be in Crabville and Lebronless.

[Jewish-collector]

2011 Chicago
2012 Baltimore
2013 Chicago ?
2014 Cleveland ?