The American Numismatic Association is recognizing two members that have “exhibited an influential, and positive presence within the numismatic community.”

The ANA has named Ian Russell the 2023 Harry J. Forman Dealer of the Year. “The award recognizes a professional numismatist who shows uncommon dedication to strengthening the hobby and the ANA; exhibits high ethical standards and integrity; and is committed to treating customers fairly and consistently,” according to the ANA.

Russell started working for a stamp dealer based in Sydney, Australia, at age 14 and eventually coordinated high-profile auctions for Stanley Gibbons Australia, Teletrade, and Bowers & Merena Auctions before founding GreatCollections Coin Auctions in 2010. “Over the past decade, GreatCollections became the fastest growing numismatic auction house, handling more than 1.2 million certified coins valued at over $1 billion, including some of the most significant rarities in U.S. numismatics,” the ANA citation cites.

The Irvine, California, resident is a member of the Professional Numismatists Guild, life member of the ANA, and was named one of the most influential people in numismatics by Coin World in 2021.

Joe Zelinski is the recipient of the ANA’s 2023 Lawrence J. Gentile Sr. Memorial Award for Outstanding Adult Advisor. “Zelinski is deeply ingrained in southern Florida’s numismatic scene. He enjoys teaching youth about the hobby at coin shows and other community events,” according to the ANA. A board member of the Florida United Numismatists, he was awarded the group’s Polly Abbott Service Award earlier this year, and he also holds leadership positions in the Fort Lauderdale Coin Club and Gold Coast Coin Club.

The Outstanding Adult Advisor will be awarded during the Pittsburgh World’s Fair of Money Member Awards and Donor Celebration, Thursday, Aug. 10 from 3:00 to 4:30 p.m. in Ballroom B at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center. The ANA Dealer of the Year will be awarded at the convention’s 132nd Anniversary Awards Banquet, Friday, Aug. 11 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Allegheny Ballroom at The Westin Pittsburgh.

The American Numismatic Association is a congressionally chartered, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to encouraging the study and collection of coins and related items. The ANA helps its members and the public discover and explore the world of money through its vast array of educational and outreach programs, to include its museum, library, publications, conventions and webinars. 

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