News release from the American Numismatic Association:

Become a smarter collector and learn how to preserve your investment

Were you aware the 1909-S V.D.B. Lincoln Cent is one of the most altered and counterfeited U.S. coins? Learning to distinguish and recognize minor inconsistencies can mean the difference between a few dollars and several thousand.

The American Numismatic Association School of Numismatics is offering a pair of educational courses held in conjunction with the 61st Annual Florida United Numismatists Convention. “Coin Conservation, Authentication and Grading” and “Grading U.S. Paper Money” will be offered prior to the 61st annual FUN show. The FUN Convention begins Jan. 7 at the Tampa Convention Center, 333 South Franklin Street, Tampa, Fla.

Coin Conservation, Authentication and Grading (3-day seminar):

Join us for an intensive three-day seminar emphasizing the most essential numismatic skills for collectors of any level. Digital presentation, open discussion and hands-on coin examination are guaranteed to increase your knowledge.

Instructor: Brian Silliman, professional numismatist, Brian Silliman Rare Coins, and former NGC grader/conserver and ANA authenticator/conserver.

Time: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Jan. 4 through 6, 2016.

Tuition: $348 for ANA and FUN members. Register by Nov. 18, 2015, for a $20 early enrollment discount. An additional $40 discount is available for ANA Life Members.

Grading U.S. Paper Money (2-day seminar):

This hands-on seminar focuses on introductory and intermediate grading skills across a number of popular paper money areas. There will also be opportunity for group discussion and one-on-one instruction. Students are encouraged to bring up to 10 of their own notes for grading, as well as a magnifying loupe.

Instructor: Glen Jorde, professional numismatist, Lake Region Coin and Currency; former manager of Paper Money Guaranty (PMG), and past president of the Professional Currency Dealers Association.

Time: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 5 and 6, 2016.

Tuition: $248 for ANA and FUN members. Register by Nov. 18, 2015, for a $20 early enrollment discount. ANA Life Members receive an additional $40 off.

For additional information or to register, please contact seminars@money.org or call 719-482-9865.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging people to study and collect money and related items. The ANA helps its 24,000 members and the public 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 go to www.money.org.