News Release

Attention all coin enthusiasts! The highly anticipated Greater American Coin Convention (GACC) is just around the corner, and it promises to be an event you won’t want to miss. Scheduled for September, the show is rapidly approaching, and preparations are well underway. Larry Shepherd, President of Shepherd Expos Management, has shared some exciting updates and crucial information for attendees.

With only four months to go, hotel rooms are filling up fast. Many club members have already secured their accommodations through the event’s official website, www.GACC.show. If you haven’t booked your stay yet, now is the time! The website offers links to all contracted properties with specially negotiated discounted rates. Given the popularity of the event and the prime location in Tampa, it’s essential to make your reservations as soon as possible.

Tampa’s vibrant riverwalk and convenient trolley system make it easy to explore the city. These connect various hotels and the convention center, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. For those who have never visited the Tampa Convention Center, you’re in for a treat. Named the best convention center in the Southeast in 2023, it boasts a stunning waterfront location, surrounded by restaurants and lively nightlife.

The GACC is set to offer more than just a venue; it will be an experience to remember. In the coming days, several significant announcements will be made, adding to the excitement. Expect to hear about a new major sponsor, an official grading service, participation from the U.S. Mint, and a special release at the show.

Moreover, the event will feature enhanced educational opportunities for collectors, all conveniently located on the bourse floor. Shepherd Expos Management is also planning nighttime social activities to further enhance your experience. Safety is a top priority, and the event location ensures you can comfortably walk the streets and enjoy the local attractions.

Shepherd Expos Management is also planning ahead, with announcements expected regarding a two or three-city show schedule for 2025. Responding to dealer feedback, the aim is to provide better show options in safe, profitable locations with a high concentration of serious collectors. These future venues will offer improved opportunities for both dealers and collectors.

Partnering with Coin World, the GACC is receiving unparalleled promotion. Coin World has been advertising the show online and in print weekly since November and will continue to do so up until the event. This extensive promotion ensures that this show will be one of the most well-publicized events in history.

The Tampa show is strategically located in the heart of the second-largest collector area in the nation, encompassing 21 million people and a vast collector base within a four-hour drive. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet other passionate collectors from across the state and nation, form lifetime friendships, and connect with top dealers who may not typically attend state shows.

On behalf of Larry Shepherd, Rick Amos, and the entire teams at Amos Media/Coin World and Shepherd Expos Management, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable experience in Tampa this September. For any questions or special needs, feel free to reach out via email at shepherdexpostampa@gmail.com or call 719-464-8801. Stay updated by visiting www.GACCS.show.

We look forward to seeing you in September for what promises to be a landmark event in the coin collecting world!

Attention coin enthusiasts! The American Numismatic Association (ANA) has unveiled its completely updated and redesigned Numismatic Diploma Program (NDP), an excellent opportunity for anyone eager to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of numismatics. Spearheaded by the ANA’s Education Director, Christian Strayhorn, this revamped program offers a fresh, engaging, and interactive approach to learning about the fascinating world of coins and currency.

The Numismatic Diploma Program is designed to provide individuals with a comprehensive understanding of numismatics through a series of six online courses. Successful completion of these courses will earn participants the distinguished title of “Numismatic Scholar.” The redesigned courses aim to meet the needs of today’s learners, featuring up-to-date information, insightful content, and an engaging learning experience.

The first course, “Introduction to Numismatics,” is now available through the ANA’s eLearning Academy. This foundational course sets the stage for the entire program, offering a thorough introduction to the basics of numismatics. ANA members can register for this course on the ANA website at ANA Education. The fee for this initial course is $75, which includes a $25 registration fee and a $50 course fee.

The ANA is committed to rolling out additional courses every 6-8 months. Each subsequent course will cost $50, ensuring an affordable and continuous learning journey for all participants. These courses will cover various specialized topics within numismatics, providing learners with a broad and deep understanding of the hobby.

Students enrolled in the NDP will find the learning experience both exciting and rewarding. The redesigned courses incorporate interactive activities, insightful articles from The Numismatist magazine, and the exploration of valuable museum resources. This approach ensures that students not only gain knowledge but also develop practical skills to appreciate and enjoy the hobby to its fullest.

Embark on this educational adventure and become a part of the vibrant numismatic community. Register for the “Introduction to Numismatics” course today, and take the first step towards earning your “Numismatic Scholar” certificate. Visit ANA Education for more information and to sign up.

The American Numismatic Association’s updated Numismatic Diploma Program is more than just a series of courses; it’s a journey into the rich history and intricate details of the world’s coins and currency. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your numismatic knowledge and skills. Happy collecting!

Today, February 17, 2024, marks a pivotal moment in naval history. 160 years ago, on this day in 1864, the Hunley submarine achieved a historic feat by sinking an enemy warship, becoming the world’s first successful combat submarine. However, following this groundbreaking achievement, both the submarine and its crew vanished without a trace, leaving behind a legacy and a mystery that endured for over a century.

Thanks to the relentless efforts of treasure hunters and historians, the Hunley was finally located in 1995 by an expedition led by Clive Cussler’s National Underwater Maritime Agency (NUMA). Resting about 4 miles off the coast of Charleston, 30 feet below the surface, the Hunley was raised completely intact on August 8, 2000, in a remarkable engineering feat.

Now undergoing a meticulous excavation and conservation process, the Hunley serves as a time capsule from the 19th century, holding invaluable historical treasures and the remains of its brave crew. Partnering with Clemson University, scientists are working tirelessly to preserve this legendary submarine, extracting harmful salts from its iron skin to prevent decay.

The Hunley’s story continues to inspire innovation and scientific advancements, pushing the boundaries of historical exploration. Important forensic evidence collected during the excavation offers hope of solving the enduring maritime mystery surrounding its disappearance.

The Hunley lab, now a center of excellence run by Clemson University, showcases cutting-edge technologies developed to conserve maritime treasures efficiently. Moreover, the submarine serves as an educational beacon, attracting visitors from across the globe to learn about history, archaeology, and science firsthand.

Join us in commemorating this historic milestone and witnessing the ongoing efforts to preserve the legacy of the Hunley. Click the arrow below to watch the video and delve deeper into the remarkable story of the world’s first successful combat submarine.