The 2009 World's Fair of Money, August 5-9, 2009 in Los Angeles, offers an array of educational opportunities designed to meet a wide range of interests and expertise levels. Three pre-convention seminars are led by prominent experts in the field. Attendees can also take advantage of several FREE programs throughout the show.

The following is a list of educational offerings in Los Angeles:

Pre-Convention Seminars

• Coin Conservation, Authentication and Grading – August 3-5, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
  Three-day seminar emphasizing the most essential numismatic skills for collectors of any level. Includes a digital presentation, open discussion and hands-on coin examination. Includes Early Bird badge.
  Instructor: Brian Silliman, NGC grader and former assistant director of operations for Numismatic Conservation Services.
  ANA Member Price: $249 (through July 1); $269 after
• Facing the Chinese Counterfeiting Threat – August 4, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.; August 5, 2009 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
  Counterfeit coins and slabs made in the People's Republic of China are pouring into the marketplace in unprecedented numbers. Access to Western technology enables counterfeiters to produce high-quality fakes. In this two-day seminar, learn how to protect yourself by becoming a smart online customer and learn how to use simple, inexpensive tools to authenticate your own coins.
  Instructors: Susan Headley, numismatic journalist and counterfeit expert; Beth Deisher, editor, Coin World; and Dr. Gregory Dubay, noted Chinese counterfeit expert.
  ANA Member Price: $149 (through July 1); $169 after
• An Introduction to Ancient Greek and Roman Coinage – August 4-5, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
  Learn the basics of collecting ancient Greek and Roman coins in this two-day class designed specifically for beginner collectors. Topics include; a general survey of ancient coins, how to build a reference library, using the Internet for collecting and research, and learning the basics of detecting counterfeits. Participants are encouraged to bring their own coins for discussion.
  Instructor: Kerry K. Wetterstrom, editor and publisher of "The Celator."
  ANA Member Price: $149 (through July 1); $169 after

Free Classes & Workshops (pre-registration requested)

• Boy Scout Coin Collecting Merit Badge Workshop & Girl Scout Fun with Money Patch Workshop – August 8, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. (Noon check-in)
  Boy and Girl Scouts can earn specific collecting awards at our on-site workshops led by trained counselors and leading numismatists. Pre-registration is required. To pre-register, e-mail Albertus Hoogeveen at arapaho2@ca.rr.com.
• Coin Collecting Basics – August 9, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
  Topics include: Consumer awareness, grading, proper storage, handling and preservation. Numismatics can be confusing – especially when you are new to the hobby. Learn the nuances of coins, paper money, tokens, medals, and how to collect smart for the future.
  Instructor: Rod Gillis, ANA numismatic educator

Free Programs & Lectures (no registration required)

• Numismatic Theatre – August 5, 7 and 8
  30-40 minute programs featuring some of the hobby's most noted experts addressing a wide range of topics. For meeting times, check the online "Schedule of Events" or the convention program at the show.
• Maynard Sundman Lecture Series – August 6, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
  Instruments of Banking and Finance – Presentations throughout the day
• Coin Collecting 101 – Offered throughout the show on the "Hall A" Stage
  Learn the basics of starting and caring for a coin collection during these informal 30-minute presentations.

For more information or to register, call Susan McMillan at 719-482-9850, e-mail education@money.org, or visit www.worldsfairofmoney.com.

The World's Fair of Money is the country's premiere money show. The event features 1,100 numismatic dealers, a Mint Promenade with mints from around the world, Museum Showcase of numismatic rarities, Collector Gallery exhibit area, hourly educational presentations, seminars, meetings, workshops and special events including the ANA's annual awards banquet.

The show is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $6 ($20 for a five-day pass), and free for ANA members and children 12 and under.

General Chairman: G. Lee Kuntz
Honorary Chairman: Bill Grant

Event Host Clubs:
The California State Numismatic Association
Numismatic Association of Southern California
Verdugo Hills Coin Club

Honorary Host Clubs:
The Glendale Coin Club
Long Beach Coin Club
Unrecognized States Numismatic Society

Official Auction Company: Bowers and Merena Auctions

The ANA is a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging people to study and collect numismatic-related items. The ANA helps the public and over 32,000 members discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of education and outreach programs, as well as its museum, library, publications, conventions and seminars. For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit www.money.org.