American Numismatic Association

American Numismatic Association. The American Numismatic Association is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to the study and collection of coins, paper money, tokens, and related objects. Founded in the late 19th century, it has grown to become the largest numismatic organization in the world, serving collectors, academic researchers, and the general public. The association is headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, and operates the renowned Edward C. Rochette Money Museum.

History

The association was founded in 1891 by Dr. George F. Heath, a physician and numismatist from Monroe, Michigan, who sought to create a national society for coin collectors. Its early growth was supported by prominent figures like Farran Zerbe, who served as its president and later as the curator of the Smithsonian Institution's numismatic collection. A major milestone was the establishment of its permanent headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colorado in 1967, facilitated by a donation from Michele "Mitch" Pascucci. The association's educational mission was significantly advanced with the opening of the American Numismatic Association Money Museum in 1982, later renamed in honor of former executive director Edward C. Rochette.

Organization and governance

The association is governed by a volunteer Board of Governors, which includes a President, Vice President, and several Governors, all elected by the membership. Day-to-day operations are managed by an Executive Director, a position held by individuals such as Kim Kiick. Key committees, including the Budget and Finance Committee and the Museum and Library Committee, oversee specific areas of the organization's work. The national headquarters complex in Colorado Springs houses the executive offices, the museum, and the Dwight N. Manley Library, one of the most comprehensive numismatic research libraries globally.

Activities and programs

A central activity is hosting major conventions, including the annual World's Fair of Money and the smaller National Money Show. These events feature educational seminars, competitive exhibits judged by the International Association of Professional Numismatists standards, and a large bourse for dealers. The association's Summer Seminar program, held annually at Colorado College, offers week-long courses on topics ranging from ancient coinage to modern United States Mint issues. Other key programs include the Young Numismatists program, which encourages youth participation, and the authentication and grading services provided through its official grading subsidiary, ANACS.

Publications

The association is a prolific publisher of numismatic literature. Its flagship monthly magazine, The Numismatist, has been in continuous publication since 1888 and features scholarly articles, market analysis, and organizational news. The publishing division also produces definitive reference books, such as the Handbook of United States Coins (commonly known as the "Blue Book") and the A Guide Book of United States Coins (the "Red Book"). Numerous specialized monographs and the proceedings of the Numismatic Literary Guild symposiums are also published under its imprint.

Notable members and awards

Throughout its history, the association has counted many illustrious numismatists among its members, including legendary collector Louis E. Eliasberg, the only person to assemble a complete set of United States coinage. Notable past presidents include author and historian Q. David Bowers and philanthropist John J. Pittman. The highest honor bestowed is the Farran Zerbe Memorial Award for distinguished service, with other major awards including the Glenn Smedley Memorial Award and the Numismatic Art Award for Excellence in Medallic Sculpture, which has recognized artists like Frank Gasparro and Elizabeth Jones.

Affiliated organizations

The association maintains formal affiliations with numerous regional, national, and international numismatic bodies. It charters over 100 local coin clubs across the United States and works closely with the Royal Canadian Numismatic Association. Other key partners include the American Numismatic Society in New York, the Professional Numismatists Guild, and the Industry Council for Tangible Assets. Internationally, it collaborates with groups like the Fédération Internationale de la Médaille and supports the efforts of the Archaeological Institute of America in promoting the study of historical coinage. Category:Numismatic organizations in the United States Category:Organizations based in Colorado Springs, Colorado Category:1891 establishments in the United States