Coins We Love: ANA Board - For Better or For Worse
This week, we’ll offer a slightly off-topic personal plea from myself, John Brush for the hope for the greater good of numismatics.
Two years ago, I had many people tell me that I was insane to run for the American Numismatic Association (ANA) Board. As someone who dislikes being “political”, I knew it would be a bit of an uphill battle from how I typically operate in life and business. However, I looked at the ANA as being worth the challenge. As the grandest of all numismatic organizations, I believe in its mission and realize that I’d never be doing what I’m doing now without the organization. I wanted to be a part of improving, growing, and stabilizing the organization. I ran, was unfortunately(?) elected, and jumped in.
I have to admit that it’s been an experience I won’t forget. It’s involved a ton of conflicting emotions. I’ve been incredibly frustrated at times, been angry (not an emotion I get very often), and felt completely lost in some of the conversations. But these emotions were mostly short-lived. There are certain things that I think did not go the “right” way, but I also know that my version of the correct answer isn’t always the best way. There’s a give and take. In the end, I have to say that I am proud of most of the work that we’ve accomplished. Establishing a firm financial backbone for the organization is the most important piece that the current board was able to do. Growing the education pieces and the social media presence that was sorely lacking was another goal that we have made great strides in overcoming. We also established locations for two National Money Shows that I’m quite proud of as I believe they are good for the growth and expansion of the hobby.
Of course, I’m disappointed in some of the results because they feel “unfinished”. That doesn’t mean I think it’s time to “stop” progress. It just means that we have to work a little harder and pick up where we left off with a few things.
As a result, I look back at the two years on the board and appreciate the overall progress. I also think that there’s so much more work to be done that was left unfinished. Good things and progress take time, sometimes far more than anticipated (or desired!).
So, with all of these unfinished plans, I’ve decided to throw my hat back into the ring for another term as ANA Governor. Maybe I’m a glutton for punishment, but I prefer to look at it as I’m a person who wants to finish what they started. I hope that the progress that we’ve made (seen and unseen) will spur your support for me in re-election as ANA Governor in 2025. Whether you support all of my decisions or not, I’m okay with it. But, please know that I do want is best for the long-term of the ANA and for the hobby in general. I also realize that changes need to occur and improvements need to be made. This is the mandate that I think those who are most involved with the organization know.
While we have a great group of people putting their heart and soul into the work of the ANA, we still need to spur energy, excitement, and progress for the grand dame of numismatics. I hope that you can find your way to agree with this and will vote for this progress to be made with the organization. If you don’t vote for me, that’s ok too - I’d rather be buying coins and playing with collections anyway!
And for now, we’ll leave you with a few interesting coins that we hope you’ll enjoy this week!
Numismatically yours,
John Brush
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