Coin Show Confidential

from NUMISMATIST magazine January,2003
Written by Steven K. Ellsworth

     Willie Sutton, one of the most notorious bank robbers of all time, once was asked why he targeted banks.
He replied, "That's where the money is!" Todays thieves need not aim so high. They can find millions of dollars' worth of easily accessible coins and currency at any coin show!
     I have attended hundreds of shows. At some, the security has been outstanding, others less so or nonexistent. Most could have been improved. Security methods that worked great last year may not necessarily work this year.
A False Sense
     When you're among friends and fellow enthusiasts at a coin show, it's easy to forget that you and your possessions could be at risk. Be very aware of your surroundings.
     Avoid conversations about coins when outside the bourse area or in public places. You don't know who might be listening. Once you leave the show, immediately remove your I.D. tag. I often
see collectors and dealers at restaurants, hotels and airports with their badges still clipped to their shirts. You might as well announce, "Please rob me first. " And lastly, never, never leave coins in an unattended vehicle, especially at a coin show.
Vigilance, Vigilance
     Coin shows should require all visitors to register. Criminals do not like their names and addresses known prior to committing an offense. (Some shows require positive identification during registration, which is even better.) Every visitor should be issued a name badge, and security personnel should insure each is worn in plain view. A minimal admission fee also can discourage unsavory types from attending.
     Dealers should be extra vigilant during show setup and breakdown. Customers and collectors sometimes are allowed to enter before the show officially opens to the public. This presents a prime opportunity for potential thieves. I personally know of a number of instances in which dealers and collectors arrived early for the sole purpose of stealing coins.
Who's Minding the Guard?
     As a dealer, I simply won't attend a show if it doesn't have trained, armed security. Small, local coin clubs often provide their own show security. This works in some cases, but unless personnel are fully aware of the legal ramifications of making an apprehension and possible arrest, I would advise against it.
     I recently attended a small, rural show and was greeted by an 80-year-old "Barney Fifer" with a huge revolver slung low on his leg. I am sure his gun had not been fired in years. Needless to say, he was ready to blast any would-be bandit. Had anyone tried to rob the show while I was there, I would have hit the floor for fear of being shot as Barney labored to unholster his weapon.
     And it gets worse. At a show a few years ago, as I was closing down the first evening, I asked the event's promoter when the security was due to arrive. He informed me that he was the security and planned to spend the night in the back room on a cot. I asked if he was armed and was told "no." Then I inquired about his mode of emergency communication. He replied there was a pay phone in the storage room and that he had some quarters should the need arise. Finally, I asked who was providing security while he slept. He said he had his large dog with him.
     I immediately packed up my coins and left. I later learned that the "guard" and his dog slept so soundly that the following morning they were awakened only after the arriving dealers pounded on the doors for 10 minutes!
Firearm Controversy
     Some bourse contracts prohibit dealers from bringing weapons into a coin show, at the same time denying any and all responsibility for theft or injury. However, problems can arise with such a policy. Individuals who have a legal and valid permit to carry a concealed firearm but are not allowed to do so and subsequently are injured by a criminal can sue the host organization. Courts have ruled that by not allowing a licensed individual to protect himself, the organization did not insure the safety of those on or near the premises and could be held liable for any injuries
     In light of these rulings, numismatic organizations simply may want to eliminate any statements concerning firearms. I can't imagine many coin clubs taking on the fiduciary responsibility of insuring everyone's safety.

Click here to continue