History and Mission of the ANA
The American Numismatic Association was established in 1891 with the mission to advance the study and appreciation of coins, paper money, tokens, and medals. Its federal charter, granted in 1912, highlights the organization's national significance. Since 1967, Colorado Springs has been the permanent home of the ANA, enabling it to offer an unparalleled combination of collections, educational opportunities, and scholarly resources (money.org).
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
- Address 818 N. Cascade Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903
- Visiting Hours Generally open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Check ANA’s official site for seasonal and holiday updates.)
- Admission Free for ANA members and children under 12; $5 general admission for adults; discounts for seniors and students. Tickets are available both online and onsite.
- Guided Tours Available for individuals and groups by advance reservation; led by experienced staff or volunteers.
- Accessibility The museum and headquarters are fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and support for service animals.
Museum Highlights and Interactive Experiences
Permanent Collections
- Harry W. Bass Jr. Gallery Features one of the most comprehensive collections of U.S. gold coins, including every type minted from 1795 to 1933.
- History of Money Gallery Chronicles the development of currency from ancient civilization through to modern digital money, including ancient Greek, Roman, and medieval coins, and early American currency.
- Rotating Exhibits Themed displays cover subjects such as Olympic coinage, Civil War currency, and revolutionary-era notes, ensuring fresh experiences for repeat visitors (uncovercolorado.com).
Interactive Features
- Mini Mint Demonstration A working replica of a coin production facility, offering live demonstrations and commemorative tokens.
- Kid Zone Hands-on activities and exhibits designed for children, focusing on the history, geography, and art of money.
- Virtual and Digital Experiences 360-degree virtual tours and online galleries allow remote exploration of the museum (360-degree virtual tour).
Educational Outreach and Programs
Education is central to the ANA’s mission. Programs include:
- Workshops and Seminars Topics range from coin grading to the history of money.
- School Visits Free or subsidized tours for student groups, often including transportation assistance.
- ANA Summer Seminar Annual, week-long hands-on courses for ages 13 and up, held at Colorado College with scholarship opportunities (ANA Summer Seminar).
- National Coin Week Held each April, featuring contests, exhibits, and activities celebrating the cultural significance of money (coinweek.com).
Preservation, Exhibitions, and Notable Artifacts
The ANA works to preserve numismatic heritage through expert curation and public exhibitions. Notable artifacts include:
- The 1913 Liberty Head nickel (one of five known)
- The McDermott-Bebee 1913 nickel and Idler/Bebee 1804 Bust silver dollar
- Gold and silver coins from ancient civilizations
- Unique U.S. historical currency
Special exhibitions and collaborations with scholars advance research and public appreciation (coinworld.com).
Community Events and Publications
- Annual Conventions The World’s Fair of Money® and National Money Show® offer seminars, exhibits, and networking for collectors.
- The Numismatist The ANA’s official magazine, featuring research articles, market news, and collecting tips.
- Digital Resources Virtual exhibits, webinars, and online forums foster engagement and education (money.org).
Travel Tips & Nearby Attractions
Nearby Museums and Cultural Highlights
- Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center Art museum with Southwest, Native American, and Hispanic collections.
- United States Olympic & Paralympic Museum Interactive sports exhibits.
- Western Museum of Mining & Industry Mining history and artifacts.
- Pikes Peak Trolley Museum Historic transportation.
- Space Foundation Discovery Center Space and STEM education.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Kid’s Zone at the ANA Money Museum for interactive learning.
- Acacia Park Downtown playground and splash pad.
Dining, Shopping, and Downtown Experience
- Walkable downtown filled with restaurants, cafes, boutique shops, and art galleries.
- Seasonal events such as First Friday Art Walks and local festivals enhance the visit.
Travel Tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for fewer crowds.
- Allow 1–2 hours for the museum.
- Combine your trip with nearby attractions for a full day of cultural exploration.
- The museum is accessible by car (ample parking) and public transit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the ANA Money Museum visiting hours?
A: Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (check official site for updates).
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: $5 for adults, free for ANA members and children under 12. Discounts are available.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, by advance reservation.
Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Q: Can I bring a group or school tour?
A: Yes, contact the museum for group rates and bookings.
Q: Are digital and virtual tours available?
A: Yes, explore online at money.org and via 360-degree virtual tour.
Summary and Visitor Tips
Visiting the American Numismatic Association in Colorado Springs offers an immersive exploration of the history, culture, and technology of money. The Edward C. Rochette Money Museum provides expertly curated exhibits, interactive features for all ages, and access to the world’s largest numismatic library. Family-friendly amenities, affordable admission, and comprehensive accessibility ensure a welcoming experience for everyone. Located in a vibrant downtown district, the ANA is ideally situated among other museums, parks, and dining options. For a quieter visit, plan weekday mornings and check the schedule for special events or workshops. Digital tools like the Audiala app and the ANA’s virtual resources further enrich your numismatic journey. Stay updated by following the ANA on social media and visiting their official site (money.org).
