My name is J.P. Martin, and I am a candidate for the ANA Board. I offer a unique perspective as a collector since 1965, an honorably discharged naval veteran, coin shop owner/dealer, bibliophile/dealer, authen­ticator/grader, ANA staff member from 1984 to 1998, Secret Service advisor, and Kyle’s father.

• I am an ANS life member, numismatic ambassador, and Glenn Smedley Memorial Award and Presidential Award recipient. I was awarded an honorary ANA doctorate, taught ANA Summer Seminar for 25 consecutive years and certified nearly 3 million coins for collectors through ANACS/ANAAB/ICG.
•  I owe the ANA a great debt. As ANA governor, I will repay that debt. My objectives are to serve the organization, in the following categories, to the best of my ability, with respect and humility for the office and a sense of humor.
• Membership: I believe that we need to add value to our membership. The measure of our success should be the satisfaction of those already enrolled, not the greater number served. My focus will be on our common interests, not on our differences.
• Education: Education is key! The ANA should be the source and disseminator of numismatic information and should continue to teach seminars and coordinate articles from numismatic experts. We must invite researchers to network and nurture their endeavors. We must explore new ways to expose and entice the new generations to our fascinating hobby.
• Feedback: Surveying our membership on major issues is an incredible tool for Board guidance. We must also have the faith to follow that direction.
• Planning: Based on poll findings, a 10-year strategic plan should be prepared. Each election, candidates would be required to agree in principle to carry out this plan before accepting office.
• Museum: I’d like to see a virtual museum, bringing our collection into members’ homes.
• Staff: I believe the ANA should maintain a well-trained and dedicated staff that is well compensated. The ANA headquarters should be an enviable place to work. The staff maintains the highest standards of  integrity and performance, so its compensation should reflect that requirement.

     Please consider me for your vote. Thanks―-J.P.