The American Numismatic Association (ANA) has awarded 2018 college scholarships to Roxanne Pittman from Pledger, TX, and Shelby Plooster from Evans, GA.

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 Roxanne and Shelby’s commitment to numismatics is unparalleled. We are most proud of their accomplishments and are happy to help with their educational endeavors.”

Pittman’s interest in numismatics began when she was about seven years old. “My dad took me to my first coin show and when I walked in they handed me a V nickel and immediately I was intrigued,” she said.

History has always been a favorite subject for Pittman and that love carried over to learning about the history behind different coins. Her focus is on collecting U.S. type coins and recently, her interest has grown for paper currency. In the fall, she plans on attending A&M University where she is pursuing a degree in business.

“I am so blessed to be chosen for this scholarship by the ANA and I will continue to work hard towards my goals at Texas A&M University,” Pittman said. “Numismatics has been part of my life from a young age and I plan to keep the hobby a major part of my life.”

In 5th grade, Plooster discovered old coins in an antique shop, and has been pursuing numismatics ever since. “I am drawn to numismatics because of the history behind the coins,” she said. “And I love seeing the artwork behind each coin design.”

Plooster enjoys collecting pieces that she finds interesting. In the fall, she is attending the University of Georgia where she wants to get a degree in either environmental health with a pre-dentistry intent or marketing.

“It’s an honor to be chosen by the ANA to receive this scholarship,” said Plooster. “The ANA has been incredibly instrumental in my development as a numismatist and now my college education as well. I will always be thankful for the ANA, and the opportunities I’ve been given because of the generosity of the organization and its members.”

Applications for the 2019 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.