ANA | Coin Collectors News

Collectors Converge on Chicago World’s Fair of Money®

Aug 31, 2019 | ANA, News

Collector activity energizes show; dealers delighted

The Chicago suburb of Rosemont again proved to be a popular site for the World’s Fair of Money, with many hobbyists lauding the show as the best in recent memory. The American Numismatic Association (ANA) sponsored the convention – considered the most important numismatic event of the year – at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Aug. 13-17.

“Rosemont exceeded all expectations thanks in part to the tremendous support provided by the Chicago Coin Club and its volunteers,” said newly installed ANA President Steven Ellsworth. “It was plain to see that hobbyists are again collecting in a serious way. Numerous dealers noted they had more activity and sales than ever.”

The event featured displays by government and private mints from around the world; expansive educational forums led by notable speakers sharing their numismatic expertise; exhibits of rare treasures from private collections and the ANA’s Money Museum; hundreds of dealers buying and selling coins, currency and related items in all price ranges; and major auctions by Heritage Auctions and Stack’s Bowers Galleries.

“It was one of the busiest shows I’ve ever had,” said Charmy Harker, also known as The Penny Lady. “I was thrilled with the number of collectors who were actively seeking pieces for their collections. I didn’t hear a single person say they had a bad show.”

“Collectors who attended the show took full advantage of a sold-out bourse,” said ANA Conventions Director Jennifer Ackerman. “The buzz on the floor was energizing.”

During the show’s opening ceremonies on Tuesday, Aug. 13, ANA President Gary Adkins welcomed special guests United States Mint Director David Ryder and Bureau of Engraving and Printing Director Leonard Olijar, each of whom addressed the large crowd waiting to enter the bourse floor. Opening festivities were made even more memorable by a flag procession, representing the eight countries with mints at the show. “It was great to see such a large representation of world mints,” said Ellsworth.

The show received national media exposure with the $1.3 million sale of an 1894-S Barber dime – one of just nine confirmed survivors from the original mintage of only 24 pieces. The certified branch mint Proof-63 (PCGS) coin is among the most legendary rarities in all of United States numismatics. It was presented in the Stack’s Bowers Galleries auction as part of the Horatio E. Morgan Collection.

A 1907 “Wire Rim” Indian Head eagle (gold $10) graded Mint State-68 (NGC) realized $432,000 during a Heritage Auctions session. The coin is one of fewer than 550 struck in 1907 with Augustus Saint-Gaudens’ original high-relief Indian Head design, which was modified that year to make it suitable for mass production. The specimen, which is one of the finest known, was from the collection of Joan Zieg Steinbrenner, the late widow of New York Yankee’s owner George Steinbrenner.

The Museum Showcase spotlighted several spectacular specimens, including the first public display of the recently discovered, fourth known example of an 1854-S half eagle (gold $5) on loan from Brian Hendelson and Classic Coin Company; and the first public display of the recently discovered 1942 high-relief Lincoln cent pattern, courtesy of David McCarthy. The Collector Exhibits area, always popular with show attendees, featured 51 competitive numismatic displays and five non-competitive exhibits.

United States Mint Director David Ryder and Royal Canadian Mint President & CEO Marie Lemay held a combined meet and greet/signing event on Wednesday, Aug. 14, to introduce collectors to their new joint product, Pride of Two Nations. The U.S. Mint also unveiled designs for the 2020-21 America the Beautiful Quarters® and provided numerous educational resources for collectors of all ages. The Bureau of Engraving & Printing showcased its Billion Dollar Exhibit featuring more than $1 billion worth of rare antique currency, including sheets of $100,000 notes.

“We’re thankful to the U.S. Mint, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and the many collectors who shared their rare and historic numismatic treasures by displaying items at the World’s Fair of Money,” said Ellsworth. “The exhibits always are a huge draw, and collectors and the public alike love them.”

A plethora of free classes, workshops, lectures and family activities were offered during the five-day event – everything from “Coin Collecting Basics” and over a dozen “Money Talks” presentations to the Maynard Sundman/Littleton Coin Co. Lecture Series on “The Future of Money & Collecting.” Past ANA Presidents Jeff Garrett and Kenneth Bressett were the guests of honor at the ANA Legacy Series on Thursday, Aug. 15, where they shared details of their early years, challenges and crowning achievements with a packed room.

The busiest day of the week was Saturday, Aug. 17, when 1,609 people took advantage of free family day. Hundreds of youngsters converged on the Young Collectors Corner and Kids Zone to learn about coin collecting, see their faces on a $100,000 bill and design their own coins or notes. ANA Education Director Rod Gillis noted that the Treasure Trivia game was particularly popular as kids could explore the bourse floor in search of answers to numismatic trivia questions and receive prizes in exchange.

According to ANA Executive Director Kim Kiick, the Chicago World’s Fair of Money represented all of what makes numismatics so special. “The sense of community was just extraordinary at this show,” she said. “Hobbyists made the most of the educational programming, the bourse and the fellowship opportunities.”

The event welcomed 8,184 people, reflected as follows:

General public: 3,579
ANA members: 3,271
Table-holders/dealers: 1,216
Staff, volunteers and pages: 118

Presidential Awards & Philanthropy Awards

Adkins presented seven Presidential Awards at the show. During the opening ceremonies, he bestowed awards on the Austrian Mint in honor of their 825^th anniversary, the Royal Australian Mint for their continued support of the ANA and the hobby, and Spink in recognition of more than 350 years of numismatic excellence. On Thursday, Aug. 15, during the ANA Member & Awards Celebration, Matthew deRoma, Paul Hybert and Blenda Brush were honored with Presidential Awards for their dedicated service to the hobby. Barbara Gregory, editor-in-chief of The Numismatist, was presented the final Presidential Award during the ANA Banquet on Friday, Aug. 16 for her long and distinguished service to the Association.

Three benefactors were honored for their financial support of the Association. Those receiving ANA Philanthropy Awards included Chester Krause, David Sundman and Anthony Terranova.

New ANA Board of Governors Installed

The World’s Fair of Money also saw the installation of the newly elected ANA Board of Governors on Friday, Aug. 16. Voting members of the Association chose a new president, Col. Steve Ellsworth (ret.), and Vice President Dr. Ralph W. Ross, as well as five new board members: Clifford Mishler, Mary Lynn Garrett, Shanna Schmidt, Michael Ellis and Muriel Eymery, who join Greg Lyon and Paul Montgomery for a two-year term. Outgoing president Gary Adkins will serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member of the board for the 2019-21 term. The ANA thanked departing board members Brian Hendelson, John Highfill, Dr. Donald Kagin and Thomas Uram for their service.

ANA Board of Governors Meetings

The ANA Board of Governors met in open session on Friday, Aug. 16, and with the newly installed board members on Saturday, Aug 17. Highlights of the open sessions include:

A donation of $15,000 to support the nonprofit Anti-Counterfeiting Educational Foundation (ACEF), which continues to work with law enforcement, policy makers and the collecting public to stop counterfeiters.
Support of U.S. Congressional Bill H.R. 3757 to require the Secretary of the Treasury to mint up to 500,000 commemorative Morgan and/or Peace silver dollars in 2021, identical in design to the original coins, in uncirculated and proof qualities. The board voted to create a committee of five participants to oversee the financial management of the 40% in surcharge proceeds that is designated to the American Numismatic Association for numismatic education, should the legislation pass. (Collectors can learn more about the legislation at money.org/coin-legislation.)
Support for a Memorandum of Understanding to explore forming a task force with the Museum of American Finance (MoAF) and the ANA’s Money Museum on a joint facility.
Selection of the Metropolitan Coin Club as co-host with the Georgia Numismatic Association for the 2020 Atlanta National Money Show®.
Approval of 2019-2021 corporate and special officers, ANA national coordinator, Audit Committee and presidential committees.
Discussion of the 2020 budget process.
Authorization for Election Service Corporation to destroy all print and electronic ballots from the 2019 Board of Governors election on or after Feb. 16, 2020, in accordance with ANA bylaws.

Video replays of the opening ceremonies, board meetings and other show highlights can be viewed at worldsfairofmoney.com.

The next ANA convention is the 2020 National Money Show in Atlanta, Feb. 27-29, at the Cobb Galleria Centre. The 2020 World’s Fair of Money will be held in Pittsburgh, Aug. 4-8, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging people to study and collect money and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of educational and outreach programs, as well as its museum, library, publications, conventions and seminars. For more information call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.

Numismatic Influencers Receive Awards During World’s Fair of Money®

Aug 27, 2019 | ANA, News

Leaders in numismatics are essential for helping others to grow within the coin collecting hobby. Whether that leadership is provided through teaching, mentoring, writing or leading conventions and shows, these activities help foster learning for all numismatists. The American Numismatic Association’s (ANA) biggest numismatic leaders and influencers were recognized in August during the World’s Fair of Money in Chicago for their accomplishments.

Seasoned leaders and mentors who ensure the growth of the hobby by encouraging and guiding the next generation of numismatists are honored with the Lawrence J. Gentile Sr. Memorial Award for Outstanding Adult Advisor. This year’s recipient is Dr. Walter A. Ostromecki Jr. A retired educator and administrator, the California resident has been an avid collector of exonumia, checks and wooden money for more than 45 years.

Ostromecki is a member of approximately 80 national, regional and local hobby clubs and has held office in many of them, including service as president of the Society of Philatelists, the Numismatic Association of Southern California, and the Bay Cities, Culver City, Los Angeles, Shamrock and West Valley Coin Clubs. An active ANA member, he was elected to the ANA Board of Governors in 2005, later serving as vice president (2011-13) and president (2013-15).

Ostromecki has received a multitude of numismatic accolades. The ANA has honored him with its Glenn Smedley Memorial Award (1995), Medal of Merit (1996) and Presidential Award (1999), as well as the Outstanding Adult Advisor award (1997). He also has earned three Numismatic Literary Guild honors and was named a Numismatic News Numismatic Ambassador in 1985. The Pacific Northwest Numismatic Association recognized him as its Nina Nystrom Memorial Goodwill Ambassador in 2011.

Each year since 1971, the American Numismatic Association has recognized the best journals and newsletters produced by ANA-member organizations. Entries in this year’s Outstanding Club Publications competition were judged in four categories: regional, local, specialty and electronic.

Regional Clubs:

Third – FUN Topics, Florida United Numismatists (Joshua McMorrow-Hernandez, editor)
Second – The Clarion, Pennsylvania Association of Numisatists (Richard C. Jewell, editor)
First – The California Numismatist, Numismatic Association of Southern California and California State Numismatic Association (Greg Burns, editor)

Local Clubs:

Third – South Hill Coin Club Newsletter, South Hills Coin Club (Ray Fiorini, editor)
Second – Pocket Change, Albuquerque Coin Club (Phil Vitale, editor)
First – The Cincinnati Numismatist, Cincinnati Numismatic Association (David G. Heinrich, editor)

Specialty Clubs:

Third – The Shekel, American Israel Numismatic Association (Mel Wacks, editor)
Second – BoTales, The Original Hobo Nickel Society (Ralph Winter, editor)
First – International Bank Note Society Journal, International Bank Note Society (Alexander Kort, editor)

Electronic Newsletters:

Third – Sacramento Valley Coin Club Newsletter, Sacramento Valley Coin Club (Patrick Carpenter, editor)
Second – Madison County Coin Club Newsletter, Madison County Coin Club (Harold Fears, editor)
First – Double Shift, Greater Houston Coin Club (John Barber, editor)

The spirit of the late Glenn Smedley lives on in this year’s recipients of the ANA’s Glenn Smedley Memorial Award. Two members who embody an exceptionally positive attitude, possess strong communication skills, promote goodwill and cooperation, and demonstrate dependability were honored during the Member and Awards Celebration on Aug. 15 at the Chicago World’s Fair of Money.

Scott Barman of Washington, D.C., has made many contributions to the organization and the hobby since joining the ANA in 2003. He became interested in collecting as a 10-year-old, when he started filling folders with coins he found in his father’s pocket change. Like many young numismatists, however, his collecting pursuits waned after he entered college. When he returned to the hobby in 2002, he embraced the challenge to become more active and joined the Montgomery County Coin Club (MCCC), looking for ways to make an immediate impact.
Barman soon became webmaster of the MCCC website and began giving presentations at meetings. Eventually, he was elected to the MCCC board of directors and later served as president and vice president.

As an information security and systems architecture analyst, Barman has assisted the ANA with its technology platforms and also served as chair of the Money.org Committee. One of the first bloggers in numismatics, he has shared his views at coinsblog.ws since 2005. He writes informative posts about current events, history, opinions and other topics of interest to hobbyists.

Barman has worked as the political coordinator of the Gold and Silver Political Action Committee, keeping members informed about the numismatic and precious-metal news out of Washington, D.C. He also has held the positions of president, vice president and club representative of the Maryland State Numismatic Association and is a member of the Washington Numismatic Society, American Israel Numismatic Association, Numismatic Bibliomania Society and Royal Canadian Numismatic Association.
Ray Burns of Cleveland, Ohio, became interested in coins when he was in high school. His first purchases were 1950-D nickels that arrived at the Cleveland Federal Reserve. In the early 1960s, Burns spent a lot of time at Mike Kolman’s coin store, Federal Brand Enterprises, and Lou Erwin’s Shaker Coin Shop. One of his early mentors was Leon Lindheim, a numismatic columnist for the Cleveland Plain Dealer.
Burns started traveling the country as a dealer in 1962 and attended coin shows in many cities. He credits Harry Jones, Steve Ellsworth, Mike Kolman, Joel Rettew and David Derzon for helping him make it in the business, which he has enjoyed for nearly six decades. An ANA life member, he received his 50-year gold membership medal this year.

Outgoing ANA board members Brian Hendelson, Thomas Uram, John Highfill and outgoing president Gary Adkins also were recognized with a Glenn Smedley Memorial Award during the convention for their dedicated service. Outgoing vice president Donald Kagin previously received a Glenn Smedley award in 2002, and was presented with a certificate of appreciation in its place.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of educational and outreach programs as well as its museum, library, publications, and conventions. For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.

ANA Presents Literary Awards to Exceptional Writers

Aug 13, 2019 | ANA, News, Shows & Conventions

2019 Adult Numismatist Literary Award Winners

The American Numismatic Association’s 2019 literary awards – recognizing articles published in the 2018 volume of its official magazine, The Numismatist – will be presented on August 15 at the ANA World’s Fair of Money^® in Chicago. The Numismatist was launched by ANA founder and first editor Dr. George F. Heath in 1888, and this year marks its 132nd volume.

The Heath Literary Award acknowledges outstanding articles published in the preceding 12 months.

First place goes to Erik Goldstein and David McCarthy for “The Myth of the Continental Dollar, Parts I and II” (January and July 2018), in which they examined the circumstantial story surrounding this popular issue.
John Frost earned second place ($100 and an engraved bronze medal) for his feature article, “Reimagining the Barbers” (August 2018), in which he discussed new photographs and information regarding father-and-son mint engravers William and Charles Barber.
David Schenkman received third place (an engraved bronze medal) for “James Murdock Jr.: Ohio Die-Sinker” (May 2018), which told of the many storecards, trade tokens and medals issued by this entrepreneurial 19th-century businessman.

The Wayte and Olga Raymond Memorial Literary Award, endowed in 1978 by the late John J. Ford Jr., is presented for articles that display original and comprehensive research in U.S. numismatics.

The study by Goldstein and McCarthy (January and July 2018) received first place ($400), and Frost’s August 2018 work earned second place ($200).
Jim Neiswinter garnered third place for “Smith of Ann Street” (April 2018), in which he described a 19th-century New York engraver who skillfully altered 1793-94 large cents that later became highly collectable.

Funded by an anonymous donor, the Catherine Sheehan Literary Award for U.S. Paper Money Studies includes $50 for first place.

Heinz Tschachler took the top prize for “George Washington: Gallant Revolutionary” (February 2018), in which he spotlighted antebellum bank notes that portrayed the Founding Father as a “gentleman warrior.”
Second place (certificate) goes to Todd Sciore for “Moore Money: A Glasshouse, a Bank and a Scandal” (December 2018), which explained how a scrip-issuing New Jersey glassmaking company became the target of blackmailers.
Third place (certificate) was awarded to Angel O. Navrro-Zayas for “Spanish Colonial Paper Money in Puerto Rico and New Orleans” (October 2018), which explored Puerto Rico’s 1776 emergency notes and a related discrepancy in a well-known numismatic reference.

Introduced this year, the Prue and Arthur Fitts Literary Award for Ancient and Medieval Coinage Studies recognizes literary excellence in those fields.

First place ($250) was presented to John Nebel for “Tetradrachm Envy” (August 2018), in which he recounted college students’ reactions to viewing beautiful Ancient Greek coinage.
Michael Shutterly received second place (certificate) for “Remember the Ladies” (October 2018), which considered coins of Rome’s Severan Dynasty empresses.
This year’s third place recipient is Mike Gasvoda for “Naxos and the Aitna Master” (June 2018), which celebrated an ancient engraver and his tetradrachm.

All feature articles published in The Numismatist automatically are considered for the Heath Literary Award; likewise, all qualifying articles are evaluated for the Raymond, Sheehan and Fitts awards. For information about submitting manuscripts for review and possible publication, email Editor-in-Chief Barbara Gregory at gregory@money.org.

2019 Young Numismatist Literary Award Winners

The ANA also presents annual awards to encourage young writers and ensure a corps of future numismatic authors and researchers. The Young Numismatist Literary Award categories are named in honor of Whitman authors dedicated to educating the next generation of numismatists. YN Literary Awards were announced at the ANA’s Summer Seminar in June.

First place in each category received a $500 cash prize, plus a $500 voucher to help build a personal library of numismatic books produced by Whitman Publishing. Second place received a $200 book voucher and third place received a $100 book voucher. The prizes were provided by Whitman Publishing.

The Bill Fivaz Young Numismatist Literary Award recognizes numismatist writers for ages 8 to 12. First place this year was Emilia Jasek for “Animals on Ancient Coins.” Second place was Matthew Daum with “The Sinking of the SS Republic” and the third-place recipient was Nikhita Rath with “Coins of Queen Elizabeth II.”

The Q. David Bowers Young Numismatist Literary Award honors numismatist writers that are aged 13 to 17. This year’s first-place recipient was Benjamin Mous for “A New Libya, A New Currency: The Effect of the Libyan Revolution on the Currency of Libya.” Alexandre Bojko placed second with “Cherrypicking Die Varieties,” and Ryan Hartley took third with his paper on “The Fabled Gold of Dahlonega: History and Collecting.”

The Kenneth E. Bressett Young Numismatist Literary Award is given to writers between the ages of 18 and 22. This year, first place was won by Aaron Kogon for “Greek Letter Forms on Judean Coins.” In second place was Chanan Oshry for his work “The United States Coinage Acts and How They Have Played a Crucial Role in the Development and Sustainability of the Country’s Economy.” Third place was received by Joshua Smith for “Pismo Clam Money Script of 1933: Theories on Origin, Adoption and Association with California’s Socio-Cultural Environment.”

ANA Members to Receive Recognition at Chicago World’s Fair of Money

Aug 10, 2019 | ANA, Announcements

Numismatics is the study and collection of coins, paper money, tokens and medals, but at the American Numismatic Association (ANA) it is the people who truly define the hobby. Several individuals will be recognized for their service and commitment to numismatics at the upcoming Chicago World’s Fair of Money, August 13-17.

The ANA established the Elvira Clain-Stefanelli Memorial Award for Achievement in Numismatics in 2013 to recognize women who have made notable contributions to the hobby. Named after the former curator of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Numismatic Collection, this honor has been bestowed on many heavy hitters. This year’s deserving recipient, Carrie Best, has been involved in numismatics for more than 40 years.

Carrie Best Best has been extremely active in the hobby as a leader, promoter, mentor, dealer and contributor. Specializing in silver art bars and rounds with themes of Christmas, Valentines and trains, Best deals in U.S. key and semi-key dates and in silver art medals.

A life member and past president (2004-07) of Florida United Numismatists (FUN), Best serves as its treasurer and was co-editor of the organization’s publication FUN Topics for 15 years. She has been Women in Numismatics’ parliamentarian since 2008, and also is secretary/ treasurer of the International Association of Silver Art Collectors and editor of its publication, The Silver Bugle.

Her efforts in promoting numismatics have been recognized by national and state organizations. She received an ANA Presidential Award (1999), as well as a FUN Presidential Award (2011) and its prestigious Award of Merit (2012).

Best has made significant contributions to the hobby, which have had a lasting impact on the numismatic community. The most rewarding part for her has been working behind-the-scenes at coin shows and volunteering with many clubs and organizations. She says, “I am truly honored to have been nominated and selected to receive this award.”

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Each year, the Association honors an ANA district representative who sets the standard for promoting the hobby and ANA-member clubs throughout the United States. At the World’s Fair of Money, Ricardo de León Tallavas will be presented with the Outstanding District Representative Award for 2019.

Born in Monterrey, Mexico, Tallavas developed an interest in coin collecting as a youngster. “It was Father’s Day, and I was 8 years old when my father talked to me about the coins he carried in his pocket as a kid,” he recalls.

Through the years, his passion for the hobby has earned him many accolades. An active member of the Bellaire Coin Club, Greater Houston Coin Club and the United States Mexican Numismatic Association, he still finds time to research and write about Mexican exonumia—his specialty.

Tallavas is a dedicated elementary schoolteacher in the Houston, Texas, area and has incorporated his love of coins into the students’ curriculum. His educational fervor also helps fuel his numismatic enthusiasm, as evidenced by his recurring role as an ANA Summer Seminar instructor. Tallavas is a leading authority on Mexican numismatics, and his classes are well-attended.

Tallavas takes pleasure in sharing his love of collecting on both national and international platforms. Always promoting the hobby, Tallavas oftentimes can be found with a camera around his neck, an infectious smile on his face and a proud glint in his eye as he talks about numismatics.

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In an effort to recognize the most important collectors, scholars and hobby professionals of all time, the American Numismatic Association maintains the Numismatic Hall of Fame (HOF) at its headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Individuals are recognized annually, with “modern” numismatists inducted in odd years, and “historic” personages in even years. This year, the ANA welcomes to this elite group a notable hobbyist, dealer and scholar—Arthur M. Fitts III.

Born in Framingham, Massachusetts, in 1936, Fitts followed the course set by his paternal grandmother, who bequeathed him an 1881 gold coin. The young collector honed his skills by filling blue Whitman folders with examples of circulating coinage, particularly Buffalo nickels, which he favored.

Fitts entered Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire in 1951, followed by four years at Harvard University, where he majored in English history. He went on to become a master at Fessenden, a private boarding school for boys in Newton, Massachusetts. There he started a coin club and shared his knowledge of numismatics with his students.

Fitts joined the ANA in 1955 and today is proud to be life member 951. In 1969 he became a partner in Colony Coin Company in Newtonville and owner in 1978. In 1973 he chaired the ANA’s 82nd Anniversary Convention in Boston. Beginning in January 1974, Fitts served as assistant to ANA Executive Director Edward C. Rochette at the Association’s Colorado Springs headquarters. There he coordinated ANA conventions and was acting curator of the Museum.

A two-term ANA governor (2001-05) and a regular Summer Seminar instructor, Fitts also was a mentor in the ANA Numismatic Diploma Program. He has communicated his enthusiasm for the hobby by delivering more than 25 presentations at ANA conventions across the country, and at least 100 illustrated, educational programs at the local, regional and national level. Over the years, he has contributed scores of feature articles and columns to The Numismatist. With his wife, Prue, also a former member of the ANA Board, Fitts has worked as an ANA national volunteer.

In recognition of his service to the ANA and the hobby, Fitts was presented the ANA’s first Adna G. Wilde Jr. Memorial Award for Excellence (2010). Previously, he was recognized with the Association’s Presidential Award (1994, 1997 and 2009), Medal of Merit (1998), Glenn Smedley Memorial Award (2000), Lifetime Achievement Award (2001) and Exemplary Service Award (2006). In 2012 he and his wife were recognized with the Farran Zerbe Memorial Award for Distinguished Service, the ANA’s highest honor. Arthur Fitts was named a Numismatic Ambassador by Numismatic News in 2001. In 2018 the Fittses established a new annual ANA prize, the Prue and Arthur Fitts Literary Award for Ancient and Medieval Coinage Studies.

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Collectors Urged to Contact Congressional Representatives for Support

Jul 23, 2019 | Administrative Info, ANA

Legislation Authorizing 2021 Morgan & Peace Silver Dollars
to Benefit American Numismatic Association

Coin collectors soon could purchase 2021-CC Morgan and Peace silver dollars that support the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and the hobby.

Legislation was introduced on July 16 (H.R. 3757) to authorize production of 2021-dated dollar coins to mark the 1921 transition from the Morgan to the Peace designs. A combined maximum production of 500,000 proof and uncirculated Morgan and Peace dollars would be authorized under the 2021 Commemorative Silver Dollar Coin Act. An unspecified number of Morgan dollars could be struck with the “CC” mintmark at the former Carson City Mint, which now houses the Nevada State Museum.

Sales of the two coins would include a surcharge of $10 per coin, 40 percent of which would be paid to the American Numismatic Association to help fund educational programs – after the U.S. Mint has recouped all of its production and associated costs. The National World War I Museum & Memorial in Kansas City also would receive 40 percent of all net surcharges, while the Nevada State Museum located in Carson City would receive 20 percent.

The enabling legislation, jointly introduced in the House of Representatives by Emanuel Cleaver, (D-Mo.) and Andy Barr, (R-Ky.), requires 189 Congressional co-sponsors.

This commemorative coin initiative is being led by Tom Uram, chairman of the Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee (CCAC), president of the Pennsylvania Association of Numismatists, and current ANA board member; and Mike Moran, noted author and researcher, and member of the CCAC since 2011.

“It’s critical that hobbyists reach out to their Congressional representatives immediately to press them to co-sponsor the bill,” says Uram. “We need the required number of co-sponsors in order for this to become a reality.”

(Collectors unfamiliar with how to reach their Congressional representatives can visit money.org/coin-legislation.

ANA President Gary Adkins noted that the silver dollar commemoratives will ignite additional interest in the hobby. “I encourage every collector to contact their Congressional representatives to co-sponsor H.R. 3757 and support the 2021 Commemorative Silver Dollar Coin Act,” he said. “Not only is this great for the hobby, but for the first time ever proceeds from a commemorative coin program will support the numismatic hobby.”

The Peace dollar was approved in December 1921 to commemorate the declaration of peace between the United States and the Imperial German government, replacing the Morgan dollar. According to information provided in the proposed legislation, the design conversion from the Morgan dollar (minted between 1878 and 1904, and again in 1921) to the Peace dollar (struck from 1921 to 1935) reflects a pivotal moment in American history. “The Morgan dollar represents the country’s westward expansion and industrial development in the 19th century. The Peace dollar symbolizes the country’s coming of age as an international power while recognizing the sacrifices made by her citizens in World War I and celebrates the victory and peace that ensued.”

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of instructional and outreach programs, as well as its museum, library, publications and conventions. For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.

ANA Selects Phoenix for 2021 National Money Show

Jul 19, 2019 | ANA, Announcements

Kagin’s Selected as Official Auctioneer

The American Numismatic Association’s (ANA) Board of Governors selected Phoenix, Ariz. as the host city for the 2021 National Money Show®. The event is scheduled for March 11-13, 2021 at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Host hotels are the Hyatt Regency Phoenix and the Hampton Inn & Suites Phoenix Downtown.

The Association also is pleased to announce that Kagin’s, Inc. will serve as the Official Auctioneer for the 2021 National Money Show. “The ANA has partnered with Kagin’s on the National Money Show since 2016 and we’re delighted to be working with them again in Phoenix,” said Kimberly Kiick, ANA executive director. “Their participation is sure to make the Phoenix National Money Show a premier numismatic event.”

Atlanta, Ga. is the site for the 2020 National Money Show, which is slated for Feb. 27-29 at the Cobb Galleria Centre. To consign items with Kagin’s for the Atlanta National Money Show, collectors can contact a consignment specialist by calling 1-888-852-4467 or email Don@Kagins.com.

The National Money Show offers hobbyists access to hundreds of dealers offering extensive numismatic inventory at all price levels, a live auction, exhibits of rare and historical treasures, and educational programming for both beginning and seasoned collectors. The show is hosted by the nonprofit American Numismatic Association, which is dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the collecting public discover and explore the world of money through an array of instructional and outreach programs.

For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.

ANA Awards College Scholarships to Committed Numismatists

Jul 14, 2019 | ANA, News

The American Numismatic Association (ANA) has awarded 2019 college scholarships to William Cooper from Woodlands, Texas, and Isaiah Hageman from Grand Rapids, Michigan. Each winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship to use toward tuition at an institution of their choice.

“The annual scholarship is an opportunity for the American Numismatic Association to expand on its core mission of education through higher learning,” said Rod Gillis, ANA education director. “There were many qualified candidates but the commitment of these two young people to numismatics is unparalleled. We are most proud of their accomplishments and are happy to help with their educational endeavors.” The recipients are eligible to receive the scholarship for up to four years.

For Cooper, numismatics is a generational hobby, passed down from his great-granddad. At age five, his father brought home boxes of pennies and they searched through them together. “After completing my first penny date set with my dad, I was hooked on the hobby,” said Cooper. “As an individual in Generation Z who grew older, what kept me fascinated with the hobby was incorporating technology such as eBay and Instagram to the numismatic field. The thought of viewing, buying and selling billions of dollars worth of numismatics at the touch of the fingertips has always boggled my mind.”

Cooper plans to attend Texas A&M to pursue a five-year master’s of economics program with a minor in mathematics and statistics. His plan is to continue with a career in numismatics, at a consulting or financial analyst job with a high-tech firm. With an entrepreneurial spirit and experience buying and selling coins through eBay, he has learned, “valuable lessons of running a business, the power of technology, and how to become profitable.”

The second scholarship recipient, Hageman, started in the field of numismatics when he bought his first spiralbound Red Book. In 2014 he joined the ANA and several other coin clubs after that. “My favorite thing about numismatics is the people and the education that comes from collecting,” he said. “I avidly collect sample slabs of all the major grading services, error coins, and the Apollo 11 commemoratives.”

Hageman has also received three ANA literary awards, two literary recognitions has published a book on sample slabs and is the Assistant Editor for The Cincinnati Numismatist. With his scholarship, he is planning to attend Calvin University to pursue a degree in music.

Applications for the 2020 ANA College Scholarship will be available in January. Recipients are selected based on academic scholarship, numismatic accomplishments and financial need. Applicants must be a senior in high school and a member of the ANA.

For additional information, contact Rod Gillis via email at gillis@money.org or call him at 719-482-9845.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of instructional and outreach programs, as well as its museum, library, publications and conventions. For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.

ANA Honors Distinguished Numismatists with Awards

Jul 14, 2019 | ANA, Announcements

Every year, the American Numismatic Association (ANA) recognizes members who go above and beyond with their service and dedication in numismatics. Awards are given to those who display a passion for the hobby, a willingness to expand it and a pride in being involved. The following awards will be presented at the Chicago World’s Fair of Money® in Rosemont, Ill., during the Member and Awards Celebration, Aug. 15.

The Adna G. Wilde Jr. Memorial Award for Exemplary Service recognizes ANA members who dedicate their time and resources to further the educational purposes of the Association and the hobby, and who set an example for others.

The award this year will be presented to life member Kerry K. Wetterstrom of Millersville, Penn.

Wetterstrom joined the ANA in 1974 at age 14. The recipient of a young numismatic scholarship, he attended the ANA Summer Seminar in Colorado Springs in 1979. Not long after, Wetterstrom actively began recruiting new members and making charitable donations of cash and numismatic material to the Association. He became a life member in 1986.

Since 1996, he has served as president, secretary, treasurer, education chair and bourse chair for four international, regional and local organizations. In addition, he is a member of more than 15 other numismatic groups. Over the past two decades, he has written many articles for educational publications and also is a contributing editor for The Numismatist.

Named a Numismatic News Numismatic Ambassador in 1998, Wetterstrom has demonstrated his passion for promoting the hobby in the ANA’s District Representative Program, in which he served for many years in local and regional capacities. He has delivered informative lectures to audiences in 12 states; presents three to four educational programs annually to clubs in central Pennsylvania; and speaks to school classrooms and civic organizations. He has taught courses at the ANA Summer Seminar for more than 20 years and has been an ANA exhibit judge since 1996.

The Medal of Merit is bestowed on members who have dedicated years of service to numismatics.

The medal is being presented to coin dealer and ANA Past President H. Robert Cambell. At age 11, he became a collector, and not long after founded a club with four boys from his neighborhood. By 21 he had turned a hobby into his profession.

Since 1996, the knowledgeable dealer has taught courses on counterfeit, altered and artifically toned coins at the Association’s Summer Seminar. In recognition of his years of teaching collectors, Campbell received an honorary “Doctor of Numismatics” degree at the event in 2016.

First elected to the ANA Board of Governors in 1997, Campbell became president just two years later. During this time, he testified before a U.S. Senate committee that was studying U.S. coinage design practices. He’s remained active in the ANA, serving on the Advisory Council since 2001.

In 2007 Campbell chaired the state committee to select potential designs for Utah’s entry in the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters® program. He has contributed to A Guide Book of United States Coins (the “Red Book”) and the Coin Dealer Newsletter. His 2014 book, Utah Trade Tokens, is considered the go-to reference on the topic and received a Numismatic Literary Guild award for “Best Token and Medal Book.”

Campbell owns and operates a successful firm, All About Coins, Inc., which he used to frequent as a young collector. He belongs to and has led almost every coin club in the state. Campbell has received numerous accolades during his decades in the hobby. Most notably, Numismatic News recognized him as a Numismatic Ambassador in 1988, and he received an ANA Glenn Smedley Memorial Award in 1999.

The Numismatic Art Award for Excellence in Medallic Sculpture recognizes an individual whose imaginative compositions transcend circulating coins. This year’s recipient is Magdalena Dobrucka of Poland.

Dobrucka studied medal engraving at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw in 1971-76, where she learned the basics of low relief. Dobrucka says her work is characterized by deep relief, which is not typical of medals, and that each piece represents her search for an unconventional solution.

The accomplished artist has won numerous awards, and her work is part of many private and museum collections. She has participated in every exhibition sponsored by the International Art Medal Federation since 1976 and has been a member of the organization since 1993. In 1994 she was surprised and honored to win its Grand Prix for her cast bronze medal The Violoncellist. She also is proud of her Columbus quincentenary medal, the 57th issue of the American Numismatic Society (ANS). Her highly sculptural design was selected in an international competition that elicited more than 100 entries from 16 countries.

Dobrucka says her art is inspired by humanity, and every award she has received “is a joy and encouragement for [my] work.”

Harry J. Forman Dealer of the Year honors a professional numismatist who shows uncommon dedication to strengthening the hobby and the ANA, and displays exemplary ethical standards as a numismatic dealer.

Mark Salzberg is this year’s recipient. As chairman and grade finalizer at Numismatic Guaranty Corporation (NGC) and chairman and co-founder of Certified Collectibles Group, the dealer’s numismatic roots run deep.

Born in Flemington, New Jersey, Salzberg became interested in collecting at age seven, when he received a 1903 Indian Head cent. His father gave him his first coin book, and a lifelong passion began.

He was hired by John Albanese to work in a local coin shop only four years later. When Albanese founded NGC in 1987, he asked his longtime friend to join his new company. Salzberg started as a grading finalizer in 1988, became president in 1991, and was promoted to CEO in 1998.

Salzberg worked as a vest-pocket dealer in high school and during his time as a college student. “I was making more money than the teachers,” he recalls. In 1978 he became a full-time dealer.

A member of the Professional Numismatists Guild, Salzberg is serious about hobby education. He has been an instructor at the ANA Summer Seminar and avidly supports its programs. In 1998 he was presented an ANA Presidential Award, and he was named the ANA’s Numismatist of the Year in 2006.

Red Book Celebrities in the Spotlight

Jul 10, 2019 | ANA, Announcements, Shows & Conventions

Red Book Celebrities in the Spotlight

To recognize hobby icons and create a record of their contributions, the American Numismatic Association (ANA) conducts the Legacy Series – live interviews with notables in the coin community. The events, held in conjunction with ANA conventions, is intended to honor individuals who have profoundly influenced the hobby and to give listeners some insight into their lives, personalities and achievements.

The eleventh installment of this series will be presented on Thursday, Aug. 15, at 5 p.m. during the ANA World’s Fair of Money® at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center (Room 44) in Rosemont, Ill. The guests of honor will be Kenneth E. Bressett, editor emeritus of A Guide Book of United States Coins (the “Red Book”), and Jeff Garrett, who was named senior editor of the essential hobby reference in May 2018.

Conducted by Numismatist Editor-in-Chief Barbara Gregory, the interview will focus on their early years (including numismatic background and interests), their challenges and crowning achievements in the publishing world, how the Red Book has affected their careers and perspectives, what inspires them, and what’s in store for them, both personally and professionally.

Admission to the Legacy Series interview is free and open to all ANA members and guests, but reservations are requested. To reserve a seat, call 1-800-514-2646. Members can register online.

Ellsworth to Become ANA’s 61st President at World’s Fair of Money®

Jul 2, 2019 | ANA, News

Voting members of the American Numismatic Association (ANA) have chosen five new candidates and four incumbents to the ANA Board of Governors for the 2019-21 election term. Clifford Mishler was the top vote receiver.

New members Muriel Eymery, Mary Lynn Garrett and Shanna Schmidt; returning members Michael Ellis and Clifford Mishler, will join current members Greg Lyon and Paul Montgomery on the Board of Governors, along with President-elect Col. Steven Ellsworth, Ret. and Vice President-elect Dr. Ralph Ross.

For President	Votes
Col. Steven K. Ellsworth, Ret. Brentwood, Tenneessee	3,206
Dr. Donald H. Kagin Tiburon, California	2,849

For Vice President	Votes
Dr. Ralph W. Ross Sugar Land, Texas	3,757
Thomas J. Uram Eighty Four, Pennsylvania	2,173

Candidates for Governor	Votes
Clifford Mishler Iola, Wisconsin	4,479
Greg Lyon St. Louis, Missouri	3,951
Mary Lynn Garrett Lexington, Kentucky	3,935
Paul Montgomery Guthrie, Oklahoma	3,888
Shanna Schmidt Oak Park, Illinois	3,871
Michael L. Ellis Camilla, Georgia	3,473
Muriel Eymery London, England	3,133

Unelected Candidates for Governor	Votes
Robert E. Oberth Marietta, Georgia	3,112
John W. Highfill Broken Arrow, Oklahoma	3,063
Rick Ewing Beaumont, Texas	2,024

In the event that a board member cannot fulfill their term, the runner-up will fill the vacant seat for the remainder of the two-year term.

The new board will be sworn-in at the annual ANA Banquet on Friday, Aug. 16, at the World’s Fair of Money® in Rosemont, Ill. Ellsworth will become the Association’s 61st president, succeeding current President Gary Adkins, who will serve as a non-voting, ex-officio member of the board.

Donald Kagin and Thomas Uram, having lost their bids for President and Vice President respectively, will be leaving the Board, as will John Highfill. Brian Hendelson did not seek re-election.

ANA members had the option to vote by either electronic or paper ballot. Out of 6,131 total votes, 4,283 were cast by paper ballot while another 1,848 members voted electronically, representing over 30 percent of votes cast.

The election was conducted and tabulated by Election Services Corporation of Hauppauge, New York. Overall, 19,737 ANA members were eligible to vote in this election; 31.06 percent of eligible voters participated. To be eligible to vote, members have to be at least 13 years old and a member of the Association for at least one year as of March 31 of the election year. In 2017, 19,425 members were eligible to vote; a total of 5,371 votes were cast, representing 27.65 percent of eligible members.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its 25,000 members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its array of instructional and outreach programs, as well as its museum, library, publications and conventions. For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.