Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary By Robyn Showanes
September 1, 2026
Celebrating Coins, Collectors, and History at the 2026 World's Fair of Money®
The United States Mint (Mint) traveled to Pittsburgh to participate in the American Numismatic Association's (ANA) World's Fair of Money® from August 25-29, 2026, at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The World's Fair of Money brings together collectors, dealers, exhibitors, and numismatic leaders from around the world to celebrate the history of numismatics while looking toward its future.
Opening the convention, attendees heard an optimistic assessment of coin collecting from Mint Director Paul Hollis.
"I'm telling you, the hobby is in great shape," Director Hollis said, crediting that strength "in large part" to the work of the American Numismatic Association.
The convention also marked a special milestone for Director Hollis, who received the American Numismatic Association's Presidential Award from ANA President Mark Lighterman in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the numismatic community.
One of the week's most anticipated moments centered on the legendary 1933 Double Eagle $20 Gold Coins. The Mint hosted two presentations, The Extraordinary Case of the 1933 Double Eagle $20 Gold Coins, on Thursday and Friday, featuring Mint Acting Chief Counsel Greg Weinman, award-winning author David Tripp, and rare coin expert Stephen Fenton. Together, they explored the history, legal challenges, and enduring fascination surrounding the legendary coins, giving attendees a deeper appreciation for one of the most remarkable chapters in American numismatics.
The presentations culminated on Friday with the historic display of the Mint's 11 1933 Double Eagle $20 Gold Coins together for the first time, offering attendees a rare opportunity to view the coins and experience one of the most significant moments in the Mint's history. Mint Police Officers maintained a constant security presence throughout the exhibit, ensuring the safe display of these historic national treasures.
The Mint also offered educational opportunities throughout the week. Director Hollis met with collectors during multiple signing sessions, while Mint Medallic Artist John P. McGraw discussed his artistic process and answered questions about products he’s worked on. Young collectors also had opportunities to engage with the hobby through dedicated programming.
The World's Fair of Money served as the launch venue for several highly anticipated Mint products, including the 2026 Semiquincentennial Morgan and Peace Silver Dollar Enhanced Uncirculated Coins, the 2026 Best of the Mint 1804 Silver Dollar Gold Coin and Silver Medal Set, and the 2026 Semiquincentennial Quarter Rolls and Bags—U.S. Constitution. Collectors also lined up to exchange cash for newly released circulating coins, including the 2026 Semiquincentennial U.S. Constitution Quarter, the Emerging Liberty Dime, and the 2026 Semiquincentennial President Donald J. Trump $1 Coin. Demand for the Presidential $1 Coin was especially strong, with long lines forming as attendees sought to add the new release to their collections.
The United States Mint thanks the American Numismatic Association and the thousands of collectors who made the 2026 World's Fair of Money another memorable event.
Learn more about the Semiquincentennial Coins & Medals Program, upcoming events, and United States Mint products by visiting the United States Mint website. Educators, parents, and young collectors can also explore the U.S. Mint Coin Classroom for resources about coins, collecting, and coin-related scouting badges.
Mint Medallic Artist John P. McGraw discussed his artistic process and answered questions about the medals and coins he has helped bring to life during an engaging presentation with attendees.
Director Paul Hollis admires the historic 1933 Double Eagle display before it opened to the public, offering a behind-the-scenes look at one of numismatics' most iconic exhibits.
Left to right: Rare coin expert Stephen Fenton, U.S. Mint Acting Chief Counsel Greg Weinman, and award-winning author David Tripp during the presentation, The Extraordinary Case of the 1933 Double Eagle $20 Gold Coins.
Director Paul Hollis accepts the American Numismatic Association Presidential Award from Mark Lighterman, the ANA's 64th President, in recognition of his leadership and contributions to the numismatic community.
