Bernie... since you've asked for the opinions of what others think (and you and I have discussed this subject on several past occassions) ... here is my view on the situation.

First of all; dealers do not arrive and set up thier tables all at the same time. Some don't arrive until the day of the show. To allow non-dealers into the room during set-up time presents a HUGE security problem while dealers are leaving un-secured inventory on their tables and returning to their cars, vans, trucks at the loading dock.... while unauthorized persons are wandering about the room.

Do you take the same position for the Atlantique City Show in Atlantic City? What do you think those hundreds of dealers are doing inside the hall on the day before, or hours before the show opens to the public?

Virtually every major coin show that I am familiar with, permits dealer to dealer transactions during set up before the show opens to the public. It's one of the prime benefits of applying for table space.

I also know of some coin shows that charge $50 or $100 for an Early Bird pass that allows non-table holders to get in to do their shopping before the general public is admitted.

Much of the same material that will be offered at the convention was also available weeks and months before at other chip & token shows ... well before convention visitors arrived in town.

Finally ... When do dealers get to view what other dealers have for sale at their tables after the show opens?