ANA Summer Seminar 2010

Earlier this year upon the urging of fellow members of the Willamette Coin Club, I decided to apply for the PNNA scholarship for the ANA's Summer Seminar. Shortly thereafter I shipped out (I'm in the Merchant Marines). While aboard a container ship in Singapore, I found out I was awarded the scholarship for the Summer Seminar in Colorado Springs. I knew I had to get a relief once the ship returned to New York June 1. Actually I had some trouble getting a replacement, finally getting off the ship in Norfolk, Virginia as the ship was preparing to sail for Port Said, Egypt. Upon returning home to Portland, Oregon I made my preparations for the Summer Seminar. In addition to getting my first choice class "Detection of Counterfeit and Altered Coins" I signed up for Jerry Bobbe's class on Conder Tokens (an evening class) and elected to stay another day to attend the Colorado Springs Coin Club coin show, starting after completion of Session 1.

My class "Detection of Counterfeit and Altered Coins," taught by Brian Silliman and Skip Fazzari, was a great learning experience; especially the "hands on." I really enjoyed being able to examine so many coins. I found the gold counterfeit coins especially challenging. I also took the two day course on Conder Tokens taught by Jerry Bobbe. The class was maxed out. Apparently there's a lot of interest in this fascinating series of British tokens. I'm guessing this would be a popular five day course should it be offered in the future.

This was my first time to Colorado Springs so it was all new and exciting. The campus is very pleasant, walking distance to "Old Town." The food at the cafeteria was good, with nice choices. Next door to the campus is the ANA Museum and Library, both of which I enjoyed visiting. It was also fun to meet and talk with famous and interesting numismatists. I especially enjoyed talking with Neil Shafer and Ricardo de Leon Tallavas. A lot of great stories and histories. Throw in the Lunar Lounge (a nightly gathering under the stars), Bull Sessions, Wine and Cheese Soirees (with live cello music!) and you've got the makings of a great week! Much Thanks to the PNNA for this great opportunity to study and learn and have a lot of fun in the process.

p.s. Got various members of the Willamette Coin Club revved up, and we're talking about renting a van and driving to next year's Summer Seminar!