The ANA has made great progress in the last year and a half, but much more needs to done. The membership of the ANA is of prime concern.  The hobby has expanded ten fold in the last two decades, yet the membership numbers remain stagnant. I believe a solid membership base is critical to the financial strength of the ANA.  For the last 35 years I have devoted my life to numismatics.  In fact I have attended every ANA Summer and Spring Show since 1974. My knowledge as a dealer, who has attended all of these shows, will be used to guide the association in selecting sites which bring the most benefit to the membership. The financial footing of the organization is critical as well.  I look forward to being a part of making sure the ANA has the funds to fulfill the membership needs now and for future generations.  My previous 15 years of board experience with the Professional Numismatist Guild, having been Treasurer and President, will be useful experience when dealing with the complex issues facing the ANA.   

Coin clubs are critical to numismatics and several years ago I organized the Bluegrass Coin Club in Lexington, Kentucky. Today, the club is very healthy, with over fifty members. The ANA has long been an important part of my life as well.  In the mid-1970’s I was fortunate to have received a scholarship to the ANA Summer Seminar. The Summer Seminar had an incredible impact on my early numismatic journey. I truly believe the ANA Summer Seminars are extremely important and should not be cut back for budget reasons. 

Numismatic education is the foundation of my recent efforts in numismatics.  Recently I have authored several works, including 100 Greatest U.S. Coins and Encyclopedia of United States Gold Coins.  The Smithsonian Institute has also been an important part of these efforts, including raising over $2,000,000 for numismatic exhibits. More information about these projects can be found at http://rarecoingallery.com/anaelection/index.php. 

I look forward to serving the organization that has meant so much to me for many years.  Please consider me with your vote in this summer’s election.