Professional trade organizations and associations are something that every serious online coin collector should consider joining. Membership in these organizations offers a wide range of benefits, and it certainly looks good on a company profile or resume. It is a great networking opportunity because these organizations connect you to other professionals in your field, as well as helping to keep you abreast of current developments. Sometimes, membership in these organizations brings you entry to invite-only auctions that can be a huge benefit for the online coin seller.

There are a wide range of different numismatic organizations both national and local. There are also organizations that focus on different aspects of the field of numismatics, for example, specialized organizations exist for scholarly or item-specific enthusiasts. These organizations offer a bevy of excellent opportunities to network, keep up to date with latest coin news, and even take part in some of the educational opportunities exclusive to their members.

National Numismatic Organizations

There are a number of national numismatic organizations – both general and specific. Membership in any of these organizations is a great way to get a head start as an online coin seller.

American Numismatic Association (ANA)

The ANA is often considered the “premier” numismatic organization in the United States. The ANA offers a wide range of professional development opportunities by way of seminars and even classes. The ANA hosts two annual events — national conventions that draw the best and brightest in the field. Members receive a monthly magazine and are also eligible to contribute to the publication if they wish.

The ANA runs the ANA Money Museum. This museum has a large number of exhibits and a wide collection of historical monetary memorabilia. Younger individuals, interested in the field of numismatics, can join the Young Numismatics division of the ANA.

National Token Collectors Association (NCTA)

This national numismatic organization, founded in 1996, was created to connect both professional and enthusiast token and medal collectors. Members have access to a private, online auction site, run by the NCTA. Members also receive a monthly magazine, with in-depth articles bringing them the latest news in this specialist field.

Numismatic Bibliomania Society (NBS)

NBS is a national, niche organization that is geared towards numismatic scholars. This organization is dedicated towards connecting individuals who are interested in studying and collecting numismatic-related literature. The NBS hosts an annual convention to connect like-minded individuals from across the nation.

Local Numismatic Organizations

There are a wide number of local or regional numismatic organizations, but what follows are the main regional “players”.

Pacific Northwest Numismatic Association, Central States Numismatic Society, and New England Numismatic Association

These organizations share a good deal in common, and all focus on connecting numismatic professionals and enthusiasts regionally. In addition to literature such as newsletters and monthly magazines, these regional organizations offer hands-on, practical assistance. Many of them offer educational opportunities such as classes and seminars to their members. There are a wide range of professional development opportunities available to active members. In addition to your usual conventions, some of these organizations even offer scholarship opportunities to their young members.

Joining a professional numismatic organization is a great way to expand your knowledge base, network, and keep up with all the latest happenings in the field. Whether you are looking for a more generalized organization, or something devoted to your area of expertise, you can find national and regional organizations to welcome you.