Ongoing conditions surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic assert another planned public gathering, as the American Numismatic Association Board of Governors voted to cancel the scheduled Phoenix National Money Show, formerly planned for March 11 to 13 at the Phoenix Convention Center at Arizona.
In a 7–2 vote, the board cited concerns about the ANA’s inability to assure the protection of its associates, dealers and visitors since the motivational factor for its action. The state of Arizona’s current limitations on indoor gatherings could have caused the ANA to reduce its own plans, such as a more compact bourse and no on-site educational programming or meetings.
One day following the board decided, the Phoenix Convention Center informed the ANA that the location had canceled all gatherings through Feb. 28, 2021; additional implementation could have imperiled the first March occasion.
“Although we share the disappointment of collectors and traders in cancelling the Phoenix National Money Show, it is the right decision given the broad assortment of uncertainties we face,” said ANA executive director Kim Kiick. Kiick suggested the ANA will explore the feasibility of hosting a digital conference in May.
Dealers who reserved tables for the series will be reached directly by the ANA convention team. Hotel room bookings will need to be canceled directly with the properties at which reservations were made.
In other action from the December board meeting, the status of the 2021 Summer Seminar was discussed. The organization had declared consideration of alternative locations, since Colorado College won’t sponsor events onsite in 2021. 1 alternative location in Colorado Springs was removed from the running because of financial concerns, leaving Denver University as the remaining option.
The board is expected to consider the option of this place or a virtual conference at its January 19 meeting.
The 2021 Summer Seminar is presently scheduled for June 19 to 24 (Session 1) and June 26 to July 1 (Session 2).