Question for those that regularly go to the National

jpcz · Jul 10, 2012

Im considering making the 3.5 hour drive down this August for 2 days. But im wondering whether or not it will be worth it. What i mean is this (my question):Will I find cards that i wouldnt normally find on the internet sites? I mean, how many dealers setup at the national that arent selling on ebay or COMC or beckett? I would be looking for a few particular set cards, as well as some nice, good priced griffey autos (the latter of which there is likely to be plenty), but dont see a point in going down if there isnt little to no chance i seeing cads i wouldnt normally see (meaning, of those im looking for).

All In Cards · Jul 10, 2012

I think a lot of the dealers at the National are old school and dont do ebay/comc/etc

Pine Tar · Jul 10, 2012

jpcz said:
Im considering making the 3.5 hour drive down this August for 2 days. But im wondering whether or not it will be worth it. What i mean is this (my question):Will I find cards that i wouldnt normally find on the internet sites? I mean, how many dealers setup at the national that arent selling on ebay or COMC or beckett? I would be looking for a few particular set cards, as well as some nice, good priced griffey autos (the latter of which there is likely to be plenty), but dont see a point in going down if there isnt little to no chance i seeing cads i wouldnt normally see (meaning, of those im looking for).

All In Cards said:
I think a lot of the dealers at the National are old school and dont do ebay/comc/etc

I would say make the 3.5 drive just for the experience of attending one....also you get to spend time with other board members and see them go goofy hunt down their wants. And that alone is worth the price of addmission. :lol:

moxacaine · Jul 11, 2012

Im sure you could find most of the cards online. But as Rich said the experience is worth it. Youre going to see some amazing high grade vintage cards and memorabilia. Its fun meeting all the guys from the card companies. Even if you dont spend a dime on cards i would say the 3.5 hour drive is worth it.

P_Manning 18 · Jul 11, 2012

With all those dealers... I bet you could find the Ripken and Ryan you need.

jpcz · Jul 11, 2012

P_Manning 18 said:
With all those dealers... I bet you could find the Ripken and Ryan you need.

I think that made my decision! Now, to get 1500+ cash out of the house without the wife noticing...

Seriously though, seems like a fun trip to something ive never been at. I guess as others have said the experience is probably worth the 20 bucks admission and 3.5 hour drive. Might have to spend the night, as i hear i likely wont get through it all in a day!

Thanks for the replies.

Messier2 · Jul 11, 2012

I'll be there for the first time this year on Friday. Hope to see what it's like...very excited!

Randy Shields · Jul 11, 2012

The National is literally like a museum. It's unlike any other card show you've attended. I suggest a minimum 2 day attendance as there is so much to see and do. And all of the Major card co.'s have special promo set giveaways.

And if you buy your tickets in advance you'll save a couple extra bucks.

National Website

All In Cards · Jul 11, 2012

Messier2 said:
I'll be there for the first time this year on Friday. Hope to see what it's like...very excited!

stopping by the FCB booth to say hi?

Messier2 · Jul 11, 2012

All In Cards said:
stopping by the FCB booth to say hi?

Is there a floorplan I can see so I know where it is beforehand?

George_Calfas · Jul 11, 2012

It is well worth the drive; I attend if I am w/i 5 hours.

Randy Shields · Jul 11, 2012

Just to follow up, if your going to stay overnight I suggest getting something a bit further away from the Convention Center. All of those hotels near the Center are a bit pricey to say the least. And you'll have to figure in cost for parking as there are only parking garages in the entire area near the venue.

Here's a link to some garages w/prices: Parking Info

chromerookies · Jul 11, 2012

coming from CT its also a 3.5 hr drive for me and I'll make it every time! I spent around $400 the last time it was in Balt. and came away with well over $3500 in sales from what was purchased there. If your looking for vintage its a must to go, for prospects you can get some deals but nothing too earth-shattering.

jpcz · Jul 11, 2012

I think you guys have all talked me into going! I appreciate all the tips and comments!

Pine Tar · Jul 12, 2012

jpcz said:
I think you guys have all talked me into going! I appreciate all the tips and comments!

Well my work is done here.

jpcz · Jul 13, 2012

Yes, thank you! Just bought my two tickets, booked my hotel 15 mins outside Baltimore for half the price, and got my parking for two days for 14 bucks total. Can't wait to go!

Randy Shields · Jul 14, 2012

You'll have a great time. I guarantee it. At some point, go down and check out the inner harbor while your there.

Enjoy!

Messier2 · Jul 17, 2012

Is BGS not going to be at the National on Friday?

All In Cards · Jul 17, 2012

Messier2 said:
Is BGS not going to be at the National on Friday?

They set up the whole time, not like they will set up Wed, break down Thursday, and then setup again Sat-Sun

Messier2 · Jul 17, 2012

All In Cards said:
They set up the whole time, not like they will set up Wed, break down Thursday, and then setup again Sat-Sun

IDK, I just saw on www.beckett.com/grading that there is no time set for Friday...

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