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The best way to get involved in the sphere is to attend specific events, meet new people, and witness the essential processes in person. Numismatists are extremely lucky, for they typically possess such an opportunity to visit large, major events all around the globe.
Recently, the Long Beach Coin Expo was held three times a year, though in 2025 and the upcoming years, things changed. So, what is the Coin Show Long Beach? What does it have to offer? What to expect soon, and is identifying rare coins at the expos possible on the spot?
What is the Long Beach Expo Coin Show?
The Long Beach Expo is one of the most prestigious coin conventions in the US that was originally held three times a year at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, California. At the start of 2025, organizers announced changes to the Long Beach Coin Show schedule, which presupposed reducing it to a single annual event in February.
“For decades, the Long Beach Expo has been a vibrant hub for dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts to connect, trade, and celebrate their shared passions. While our community’s enthusiasm has remained unwavering, the rising costs of hosting such an iconic event have necessitated a thoughtful reassessment of how we can best serve our attendees and exhibitors.”
— Stephanie Sabin, President of PCGS
PCGS News
Key Events
The 2025 Long Beach Show took place from February 20 to 22 and featured the following events (the upcoming years are likely to build on this tradition, too):
Heritage Auctions stands where one can buy, trade, and exchange valuable items
Meetings with coin experts, e.g., Steve Feltner (PCGS Grader) and Philip Thomas (PCGS Banknote Grading Manager)
Giveaways from PCGS and NGC grading services
Early American Coppers Club meeting
Numismatic Association of Southern California (NASC) Board Meeting
Free Kids’ Treasure Hunt
Educational seminars
Public Show Hours
Thursday: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Friday: 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Admission Fees
If you wish to attend the Long Beach Coin Convention as a guest, the following represents relevant information regarding prices. Nevertheless, if you are to serve as a participant, e.g., deliver a lecture, please contact the organization for further guidance and more accurate details.
General Admission: $10 (valid for all three days)
Seniors (65 and older): $5
Children under 8: Free
VIP Early Entry: $100 (early access included)
Note that certain categories of people may be given free tickets, but this applies to specific occasions and advance requests only.
Tools and Services to Use During the Events
Sometimes, these events may overwhelm. However, for one to stay calm and concentrated, it might be reasonable to rely on additional instruments during the Coin Expo Long Beach. Some of them are exclusively presented during the show, and others are available long before and after the event.
On-Site Grading Services
Represented by: PCGS or NGC
One of the famous guests is always PCGS. During the Convention, all visitors may submit their coins for grading (and consequent slabbing) to get the certification of authenticity right on the spot. This service may ensure that rare or valuable coins are properly evaluated and cannot be counterfeited during the numismatic affairs. Quite a reasonable thing to do during the convention.
Auction and Lot Viewing
Represented by: The main online coin auctions, like the GreatCollection or Heritage Auctions
The central part of the Expo is always taken by auctions. One is free to view various lots, place bids, and purchase the rarest coins in the world while enjoying their time at a convention. Even if you are not currently interested in bidding, this can be quieter entertaining and even educational to observe in person.
Coin Collecting Software
Represented by: Coin ID Scanner app
LBE has demonstrated a rising interest in the use of digital tools during the event. Apps like Coin ID Scanner offer numerous features to do the following:
Research coin market data and trends
Detect coin defects or deviations
Verify coin origins
Check coin values
Manage and organize personal collections
… and even more!
Meet the Experts
Represented by: David Hall, Steve Feltner, Philip Thomas, et al.
Finally, the best thing to do during the event is to attend Meet the Expert sessions to consult professionals on any numismatic topics, get their feedback regarding any numismatic topic, and listen to what modern trendsetters may offer. It is always vital to make connections with like-minded people. This is how the true hobby begins.
In 2026, the event will once again be held in February, though the exact dates have yet to be announced.
FAQs
What are the Long Beach coin show dates in 2026?
The schedule is usually revealed a few months prior to the event. However, it is still expected to take place in February (19 to 21, give or take).
What is the biggest coin show?
One of the largest and most influential events in the field is the World’s Fair of Money, held by the ANA. However, the Long Beach Coin Show is also quite prominent and well-known.
Are coin shows worth going to?
Indeed! They do offer opportunities one may lack in daily life: this comes down to buying, selling, or trading coins in person, as well as learning from professionals, and viewing rare pieces as they are. So thrilling!
How do I prepare for a coin show?
Research coins you are interested in and their current market values; set a budget and select tools to use; prepare questions for experts and dealers, if you have any.
Is the Long Beach Swap Meet cash only?
No, cash might be preferred, but cards and digital payments are also accepted.
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