Samuel Sternberg
Summer Seminar Report
Thank you very much to the National Silver Dollar Round Table for awarding me the funds to attend my first ANA summer
seminar. It was so exciting! My dad and I traveled from Ithaca, NY, to Colorado Springs.
During the first day of U.S. Coin Grading Part 1, taught by Jim Stoutjesdyk, Don Bonser, Wade Spencer, and Kyle Eppley,
we learned technical jargon and important designations in coin grading. We then jumped into the mechanics of coin grading.
We learned about different methods of restoring coins, but also about the dangers of “doctoring” a coin. We learned that
abrasive cleaning methods can be very detrimental to a coin’s desirability and value.
On the second day of the course, we examined different series of coins and were taught where to look for the prime focal
area and the high points on different major series. Later that night, I took an engaging mini-seminar in which I learned about
pattern coins. After the evening class ended, I received a certificate from John Frost, the instructor.
The third day, we created teams of 4 in the grading class. Each team named itself because they would act as a “grading
service” and grade 24 different coins. Each individual grader got 2 minutes to grade each coin. After all the graders at the
table had finished grading, they would discuss their thoughts on the different coins and assign a consensus grade. In the
first round, my table ended up winning second place for most accurate graders. We aced the second round and were more
accurate than any other table of graders in the classroom. Two hours after class ended, I started my second mini-seminar.
This fascinating evening seminar was about error coins. I was given the chance to examine many types of error coins, a few
of which were even unique. I was also taught about the names of many different errors and what caused the errors in the
first place. Just like the night before, I received a certificate from Mr. Frost signifying that I had taken the course. That night,
I also attended the YN Benefit Auction. I met other YNs and also got to know the coin business better.
The fourth and final day, we spent the morning grading coins as a group again. But after lunch break, we split up, and we
started grading coins on our own, without group discussion. After the correct grades of the coins were revealed, I learned
that I had graded the most accurately of everybody in the specific class. After the “test,” everybody received a certificate
from the instructors. Later, I went down to the first floor of the hotel in which my dad, who also took the course, and I were
staying to attend the banquet. At the banquet, I got to make more connections with YNs.
After the course, I visited the wonderful ANA Money Museum with my dad. What a terrific trip! Thanks again to the NSDRT
and ANA!
Selby Ungar Education Fund
The National Silver Dollar Round Table (NSDR), on behalf of the Selby Ungar Educational Fund, is proud to announce the creation of the NSDR Young Numismatist Education Scholarship.
The Selby Ungar Education Fund was established in 2019. Mr. Ungar is the co-author (Crum, Oxman) of “Carson City Morgan Dollars.” A veteran of the United States Air Force, he served as Vice President of the NSDR for eighteen years.
Mr. Ungar’s contributions to numismatics, as an author, dealer, collector and educator, and his undeniable warmth and sincerity, will leave a lasting legacy throughout the hobby.
The objective of the National Silver Dollar Round Table (NSDR) is to advance the knowledge of numismatics, especially of United States silver dollars. The NSDR thrives to inspire cooperation among all persons interested in silver dollars
through educational seminars, social meetings, publications and other numismatic forums and fellowship. Education is the cornerstone of our organization and, for that reason, we are pleased to offer this scholarship to a worthy young
numismatist.
NSDR President Jeff Wuller, who has participated in the ANA Summer Seminar as both a student and as a guest speaker, believes the well-being of our hobby starts with the education of our young collectors. “Young Numismatists are
the future of our hobby. If we do not support them, the hobby will continue to decline.” Mr. Wuller found the ANA Summer Seminar courses to be instrumental to his growth as a Numismatist, “There is always something to learn. I first
took a grading class. Since then I’ve taken classes on counterfeit and altered coins and modern printing process.” Mr. Wuller encourages all dealers and collectors to take the time to educate our Young Numismatists, to mentor and
share their knowledge and excitement in promoting the hobby.
The week-long ANA Summer Seminar in Colorado Springs can be an invaluable experience for any numismatist, and especially exciting for a young collector who is just starting to enjoy the hobby. The NSDR is pleased to help nurture deserving
young numismatists in the promotion and education of silver dollars and numismatics as a whole.
Who Should Apply
The NSDR encourages silver dollar enthusiasts between the ages 13-18 to apply. Applicants should be a current member of the NSDR or willing to become a member. Applicants should be interested in silver dollars, of any time period, and eager to contribute to the growth, knowledge and education of silver dollars within the hobby.How to Apply
Essays must be written solely by the YN who has not reached his 19th birthday by March 1, 2024 and can cover any aspect of United States silver dollars. Essay length should be from 300 to 500 words and must be received by the NSDR by March 1, 2024. Winners of the competition will be announced March 17, 2024. The first place winner will be awarded a scholarship for one week attendance at the ANA Summer Seminar to include airfare. Second and third place will receive a US Savings Bond for $500 and $250 respectively. The applicant may not use AI technology or they will be disqualified. A typed double-spaced essay should be sent to: Mike Faraone/NSDR PO Box 752132 Las Vegas, NV 89136 You should also email your essay to: mfaraone@hotmail.com In addition to earning the NSDR Young Numismatist Education Scholarship, the winning essay will be featured on the NSDR website (www.NSDR.net).The NSDR Young Numismatist Education Scholarship covers the following…
Tuition for one of two week-long Summer Seminar sessions, airfare, five nights of dormitory accommodations on the campus of Colorado College (or wherever the ANA Summer Seminar is to be held, determined on a year by year basis