Find/Collect: All You Need to Know About Illinois Coin Shows

Find/Collect: All You Need to Know About Illinois Coin Shows

Coins are captivating metal pieces that tell the stories of the past, hold the significance of today, and make a difference in the future. However rare and trite this type of currency may become, they have always grasped the attention of coin admirers and cold investors, too.

Coins are captivating metal pieces that tell the stories of the past, hold the significance of today, and make a difference in the future. However rare and trite this type of currency may become, they have always grasped the attention of coin admirers and cold investors, too. 

When thinking about the best way to learn more about the industry, get involved in this sphere, and meet those who may become your mentor one day, there appear coin shows for sure. Illinois, the cultural heart of the entire America, is home to several conventions that gather coin enthusiasts and provide them with inexplicable opportunities. So, let us see what they have to offer. 

A close-up picture of a group of people at a coin show, engaged in conversation while examining coins at display tables together.

Briefly About Coin Show Illinois

Generally speaking, Illinois coin shows and conventions represent lively events that attract numismatists, collectors, and enthusiasts from all walks of life. These gatherings give each member (no matter how old or wealthy they are) a place to purchase, sell, and trade coins, bills, and other related objects, which definitely makes the community bonds stronger than ever.

Want to know what coins to collect if you are a beginner? Or want to buy something special to add it to your collection? Then these shows are perfect. 

These events, typically held in community centers, hotels, university areas, or convention halls, invite lots of merchants selling rare coins, bullion, and historical cash from various eras and cultural backgrounds, as well as coin-collecting tools and materials, e.g., reference books, holders, albums, and dedicated apps, too. 

In fact, IL coin shows often host educational seminars, lectures, and workshops where professionals share their expertise and deliver essential information on various numismatic themes, in addition to buying and selling opportunities. While experts can expand their knowledge on particular areas and aspire to find the most valuable coin ever, this also helps beginners to discover more about the field and numismatics as a whole. Quite intriguing, isn’t it? 

A photo from the Chicago Coin Expo, capturing a vibrant scene with collectors and dealers browsing tables filled with coins.

Some Major Coin Events 2024

Like any other state, Illinois invites thousands of organizers to hold coin events in this region, for the cultural background of the area sets the right environment for fruitful collaboration (and numismatic endeavors of all sorts). Although these are generally similar in activities provided, some events stand out as unique and the most valuable spots to attend ever. Here is a quick list of the events you might have missed in 2024. 


Name

Location

Date

Quick Overview

Chicago Coin Expo

Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel & Conference Center, Rosemont, IL

April 11-13, 2024

The most famous coin show in the Midwest with numerous dealers showcasing coins, currency, and numismatic supplies, educational presentations, competitive exhibits, and opportunities for networking.

Central States Numismatic Society (CSNS) Convention

Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel, Schaumburg, IL

April 24-27, 2024

One of the largest and most prestigious coin shows in the country that features educational sessions and special events, including a banquet and awards ceremony.

West Suburban Coin Show (Countryside Coin Show) 

Union Hall, Joliet Rd, Countryside, IL

October 12, 2024

Coin Show Countryside Illinois, known for its friendly atmosphere and excellent opportunities for collectors to buy, sell, and trade while engaging with other numismatists.

Illinois State Numismatic Association (ISNA) Annual Convention

Crowne Plaza Hotel, Springfield, IL

October 18-20, 2024

A platform for Illinois collectors to gather and share their passion for numismatics with a chance to meet like-minded enthusiasts in a welcoming environment.

Upcoming Coin Shows Calendar: The Main Dates

January

Chicago Coin Club Meeting

Date: January 8, 2025

Location: Chicago, IL

Description: Monthly meetings with presentations and discussions.

March

Elgin Coin Club Coin Show

Date: March 30, 2025

Location: Holiday Inn, 495 Airport Rd., Elgin, IL

Description: A gathering for buying, selling, and trading coins.

April

Central States Numismatic Society

Date: April 23-26, 2025

Location: Renaissance Convention Center, 1551 Thoreau Drive North, Schaumburg, IL

Description: A major expo with different trading opportunities and educational sessions.

September

Great American Coin and Collectibles Show

Date: September 23-27, 2025

Location: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 North River Road, Rosemont, IL

Description: One of the largest and most prestigious coin shows in the US

What to Expect at Coin Shows and How to Prepare

Apart from the typical activities like auctions and exhibits, attendees may be overwhelmed by the opportunities that are not to be missed. As such, coin fairs usually invite dealers exhibiting rare coins, contemporary money, bullion, and more specialized goods like medals and tokens, which is obvious for sure. If you are wondering what is the best gift for coin collectors, you will find it here anyway.

However, numerous programs include informative seminars and workshops taught by experts in the field. These usually cover different coin-related subjects, such as market trends, coin grading, and particular numismatic divisions. Besides, coin fairs offer a special chance to meet other enthusiasts and collectors to grasp new information, make friends, and even delve into business affairs.

Nevertheless, so as not to get lost in the center of the show, it might be essential to prepare a few aspects in advance so as to enjoy the event to the fullest. First of all, get acquainted with the venue's general layout, special activities and seminars scheduled, and the companies that will be present during these days. Do not forget to make a list of particular coins or goods that you are trying to purchase or exchange and decide how much you are ready to spend at the event. 

This is always vital.

A screenshot from the Coin ID Scanner that shows the coin identification feature useful during any Illinois Coin Show

Moreover, employ additional tools like Coin ID Scanner that can identify old coins by picture​ with just one snap. Know their value, understand their characteristics, and notice each defect on the spot. Besides, keep track of your collection and manage it within the app’s system in order to remember which coins have already been integrated into your collection and which ones are on the way. These should make your coin-collecting experience smoother and more pleasant for sure.

Coin shows are incredible places to meet people who understand your passion, so do not miss a chance and find a show to attend this year! 

Sources: 

  1. https://www.coinzip.com/index.php?state=IL

  2. http://www.ilnaclub.org/show.html

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