The Whitman Coin & Collectibles Expo is standardizing its dealer-setup schedules across all show locations. The change will start with the September 2010 Philadelphia Expo.

Dealer setup will begin Thursday at 9 a.m., followed by Early Bird entry at 10 a.m., and general-public access at 12 noon. This is in response to many show dealers requesting a shorter setup time, starting on Thursday instead of Wednesday (i.e. Philadelphia Expo), with earlier public access. The new schedule is similar to the system already in place for the Baltimore Expo. (The tradition of inventory drop-off Wednesday evening at the Baltimore Expo will remain the same.)

“We want to make sure our shows are the best possible venue for all participating dealers, Early Birds, and visitors,” said general manager David Crenshaw. “The new standardized schedule lets dealers concentrate on their buying and selling, lets the public in earlier, and gives Early Birds a chance to shop before the show opens.”

Early Bird fees are now $75 (or $50 if pre-registering). Early Birds get admission two hours before the public on setup day, plus early admission (one hour) before the public during the rest of the show.