Questions From Newbie Going To Edmonton Stamp Show This Weekend

I've never been to a stamp show before but this one seems timely as I have inherited a small collection of unaddressed FDCs and unused stamps mostly from the 70s to 80s. These aren't my jam but it has reawakened my childhood interest in stamp collecting! I'm wondering if selling or trading is something that goes on at these shows? Can I obtain an appraisal there? Any tips on protocol/etiquette?

Those souvenir sheets were printed in large quantities (> 5 millions). Beautiful stamps, but most collectors have one or many copies of the sheets so probably worth less than face value. (< 2$/sheet). (such as discounted postage - keep in mind that at todays 1st class mail rate, you'll need 10 flag stamps to send 1 regular envelope within Canada).
Most dealers would buy the 60's to 90's (regular/single rate ones) for less than 1/3 of face. P stamps and higher values (2$, 5$, 8$ stamps) close to face value.
From time to time, one may find a particular variety (tagging missing, printed on wrong side, missing part of a color etc..) that has more value, and that could be an interesting approach to modern stamp collecting, but it needs patience and knowledge to recognize it, when it crosses your desk. That could be a lot of fun and enjoyment when you find one.
Bottom line, stamp collecting is not about investing to make $ but a hobby that helps meet new people, learning and keep the brain active.
Last point from your post, modern 1st day covers from Canada, despite being well made, and beautiful, do not attract lots of collectors, and are often offered at < 1$ brom auction houses and dealers.
Welcome to the forum, and I hope you find the show of interest. Talk to the dealers, look at the exhibits, and you may be surprised to discover a new hobby for years to come.

Thank-you Gilles for the advice and observations. I collect in other fields and find your words regarding enjoyment over profit could apply universally...excepting hedge funds, etc. Looking forward to the weekend :-)

yes, there is usually a few gentleman that can give you a "quick" appraisal/information,

Trodent

Thanks Trodent, wish I could find a "Like" button. I'll check the corners for people in dark suits with sunglasses...

When attending a National level stamp show for the first time do yourself a huge favour.....plan to spend half of your time at the exhibits. You will be amazed by the variety of subjects and the quality of the material. You will often see philatelic stuff that is the subject of dreams.

Forget the money and appreciate the hobby! Don't forget to enjoy yourself.

Hi gportch, we went this weekend and had a great time. As you suggest, the exhibits were absolutely amazing and set a very high standard for presentation and storytelling. Here are a few of the exhibits. My wife's favourite was the frogs. I really enjoyed the OHMS exhibit and took pictures of every panel to review later.

Stamp Talk - I am grateful that you shared the update on your experience. I read your posts over the weekend and wanted to post an ask to please share an update. It dawned on me that I was likely a day late from when I was reading. I have been entertaining more and more shows over the past couple of years and am glad to hear it was a positive experience! Cheers!

Thanks for your feedback Brian, think I'll attend the local chapter in a few weeks.