Commemorative Coins at the 2024 World’s Fair of Money
To celebrate the 2024 World’s Fair of Money in Chicago, the American Numismatic Association (ANA) and Minted Assets will provide the first-ever decimal-denominated legal tender coin during the show. Attendees that visit booth 730 on the bourse floor can receive a free base metal commemorative coin (limited quantity) with designs reflecting this year’s convention. About 200 coins will be handed out per day (around 1,000 total), from August 6-10.
Insight: Collector Excitement
Coin collectors and numismatists attending the World’s Fair of Money are sure to be excited about the opportunity to obtain this special commemorative coin. The limited quantity and unique design make it a coveted item for enthusiasts.
The obverse design on the ANA’s commemorative coin shows an allegorical figure of NOMISMA, which is the Greek word for “money”, holding the World’s Fair of Money logo. The motto E Pluribus Unum graces the legend as a tribute to the show’s mission of bringing people in the hobby together for the convention.
Insight: Symbolism in Design
The choice of imagery on the coin, such as the allegorical figure of Nomisma and the American bald eagle in flight over Cloud Gate, adds layers of symbolism that connect the coin to the history and location of the convention. These symbolic elements enhance the collectability and historical significance of the commemorative coin.
The reverse depicts a proud American bald eagle in flight over Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean”. The eagle is shown holding a rose in its talons, which symbolizes the city of Rosemont, Illinois, where the convention is held. An image of Dr. George F. Heath can be seen in front of Cloud Gate. Dr. Heath was the founder of the ANA and held the very first convention in the city of Chicago in 1891. Engraver Charles E. Barber originally created this image on a Galvano in the early 1900s. The image was later turned into a medal for the ANA.
Insight: Historical Significance
The inclusion of Dr. George F. Heath in the design of the commemorative coin pays tribute to the origins of the ANA and the legacy of numismatics in Chicago. By highlighting this historical figure, the coin becomes not just a token of the 2024 World’s Fair of Money, but also a commemoration of the rich numismatic history of the region.
The ANA World’s Fair of Money is being hosted at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL. The show brings coin collectors together from all over the world, featuring hundreds of dealers, displays of rare treasures, educational opportunities, family activities, and more.