THE I. N. A. BULLETIN
 
IOWA NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION
Corporate Member American Numismatic Association
 
HISTORY OF THE
IOWA NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION
 
(The Iowa Numismatic Association will celebrate its Silver Anniversary at its annual convention October 4, 5, 6, 1963. Following are some of the highlights of 25 memorable years,)
 

PART I 1938-1963

 
THE INITIAL YEAR
 
Organizational Convention - June 19, 1938.
 
The Iowa Numismatic Association was the first state numismatic organization made up of individual members.  It was formed June 19, 1938 at Iowa City, Iowa. During that initial year of 1938, important steps were taken and rules laid down which formed the basis of this successful organization.
 
The Hotel Jefferson in Iowa City was host to the first meeting.  Ted R. Hammer of Burlington, Iowa presided and Earl Cole of Des Moines, Iowa acted as secretary. Both were the District Secretaries of the A.N.A. for Iowa and had arranged this meeting through the co-operation of the Ames Numismatic Society and the Quad City, Des Moines, Cornbelt, and Muscatine Coin Clubs.
 
J. Henri Ripstra, A.N.A. President, said that there were more new collectors in Iowa than any other state. He urged stimulation of interest among junior coin collectors and foster formation of junior clubs.  He advised the collectors to be satisfied with a small start. To maintain good domestic relations, he told the men to be frank with their wives and tell them what was paid for coins.
 
Lee Hewitt, publisher of Numismatic Scrapbook, recommended formation of a state organization. He said his magazine enjoyed a large circulation in Iowa and invited collectors’ contributions of articles.
 
M. Vernon Sheldon, secretary of the Chicago Coin Club and candidate for the secretaryship of the A.N.A., expressed a desire that the Midwestern states event­ually hold a joint convention.
 
Chairman Hammer next introduced:  C. E. Briggs, former District Secretary of the A.N.A.; Clarence A. Hahn, Muscatine Coin Club president; Dr. J. R. Schneider, Quad City Coin Club president; L. G. Rogers, Cornbelt Coin Club president; Walter P. Bohler, Ames Numismatic Society president and Milton Radke, Des Moines Coin Club president.
 
At the business meeting, a motion for formation of a state organization was adopted unanimously. A motion that the chairman appoint a committee to draw up a model constitution and by-laws suitable for adoption later in the day was carried. V. Leon Belt, Waterloo, was appointed committee chairman.
 
Ted R. Hammer and Earl M. Cole were elected president and secretary-treasurer respectively, despite Hammer's expressed wish that others be given the honor of office so that he and Cole could continue their work as District Secretaries.
 
The next state meeting was set for October in Des Moines. R. E. McLain was appointed chairman of the committee for the next meeting.
 
The youngest collector at the convention was 12-year-old Blair Smith who became interested in collecting through the gift of a penny board.  C. E. Briggs, whose A.N.A. number was 307, was the oldest A.N.A. member attending.
 
George A, Emery won first prize for the most unique display of coins and T. J. Barnes won first prize for best display.
 
J. Henri Ripstra delivered the featured talk.  He told of a woman who had written him in regard to the sale of a Columbian half dollar.  She said she had received an offer of $500 for it, and would like to have him sell it for her for a commission, and even sent tracings of the coin. Ripstra in this way illustrated in his speech that many people (even today) are misinformed on the value of coins and expect unreasonable premiums.
 
Ripstra urged collectors to keep a reasonable amount of gold — in accordance with the amount to be set up by the Treasury Department, and that it was legal to do so.  He attacked the racketeering methods used in the distribution of commemo­rative half dollars and said collectors could stop this by not buying new issues from distributors at prohibitive prices.
 
The accepted design for the new U.S, nickel (Jefferson nickel), Ripstra said, was done by a man who is not a citizen of the U.S. His dies were not accept­able in their present form and had been returned to him several times for necessary changes. Ripstra wondered if it would be unreasonable for the A.N.A. to have a voice in the acceptance of any new design of a coin.
 
Ripstra then spoke briefly on his display, consisting of an 1817 Crown of England, George III in silver and a Waterloo medal by Bennedetto Pistrucci. Pistrucci spent 33 years, Ripstra said, in the cutting of the die for this medal.
 
M. Vernon Sheldon then spoke on the display pieces which were products of Ripstra’s work — a Balboa medal, a Helen Culver medal and a Lincoln plaque. Sheldon also spoke on his display of ancient Greek coins.
 
After the talks, it was decided that the constitution and by-laws of the INA be filed in Polk County as a non-profit corporation.  R. E. McLain and V. Leon Belt were elected first and second vice president respectively. A board of directors was elected by acclamation.  They were:  Ernest Moore, Elmer Laurent, Walter P. Bohler, Lloyd G. Rogers and L. A. Page.
 
After the meeting was adjourned, thirty minutes were allowed for viewing exhibits before the auction sale was called. According to the Numismatic Horn-blower, the auction consisted of 150 lots ranging from cents to $10 gold. Only Iowans could submit auction pieces. No mail bids were accepted.
 
The only fee for the meeting was 75 cents, including luncheon.  An auction charge of 10 per cent was made with the money going into the treasury of the newly formed INA. According to the Hornblower, 75 lots had been received by late May from dealers and collectors, including commemoratives, gold, two 1856 flying eagle cents and a 1799 cent fair condition.
 
That the auction was successful can be seen by the fact that J. B. Simon, the auctioneer, was so busy he forgot to sign up for membership in the INA and had to do so later, sending in his 50 cent membership fee.
 
Another humorous sidelight to the convention was that the ladies, who had been invited to accompany their husbands, were almost forgotten.  The men were so busy with formation of the new organization and the auction that preparations for bridge and other diversions for the ladies were not set up.  This situation was corrected at the next meeting in October.
 
Earl M. Cole had special medals struck and distributed to each person attending the convention.  The supply of medals was soon exhausted as people who had not been able to attend the meeting sent in for them.
 
Eighty-one persons registered at this first meeting.  Pieces to be given as door prizes were donated by:  Stack's, New York City; Wayte Raymond, Inc., New York City; Tatham Stamp and Coin Co., Springfield, Mass.; Kenneth W. Lee, Glendale, Calif.; Nelson T. Thorson, Omaha, Neb.; Ted Hammer, Burlington, and Earl M. Cole, Des-Moines. A letter of thanks and an official medal of the meeting was mailed to these con­tributors.
 
When the first convention came to an end, the groundwork had been laid for a numismatic organization which would soon have a strong voice in national numismatic ventures.  Those attending went home eager to begin work which would soon make the INA one of the strongest state numismatic organizations in the country.  The new members looked eagerly ahead to the October meeting in Des Moines.
 
FIRST-YEAR PROGRESS
 
The INA, official publication of the Iowa Numismatic Association, was one of the notable accomplishments of the association's first year.  The first issue of this bulletin, published on July 20, 1938, was distributed to all known collectors in Iowa. A notice was placed in the bulletin saying that sub­sequent issues would be sent only to INA members and coin associations with whom an exchange agreement had been worked out.  Ted R. Hammer, INA president, was editor of the publication.
 
Items such as the following, which were in the five issues of 1938, made the INA both informative and entertaining from its inception:
 
"Indians may have been thick out west once, but not today, says Cleo Loserth of Burlington.  She found only 3 Indianhead cents in going through 5,500 while on a motor trip to the west coast recently.  She found:  1909-S VDB —1, 1909 S(LH) —3, 1910-S —16, 1911-S —10, 1912-S —11, 1913-S —19, 1914-S —8, 1914-D —1, 1915-S —11, 1922 —1, 1922-D —6, 1924-D —2, 1926-S —45, 1931-S —6, 1931-D —2."
                                           (INA — Dec. 5, 1938)
 
"Congressional investigations are nothing new...in the 1780’s when a handful of patriots were trying to start the mint, there was plenty of opposition. And after it got going in 1793 (built in 1792)...numerous senators and congress­men supported moves to abolish it.  Last serious effort was made in 1802, but this action was lost in the committee in 1803.  This is also something which happens even with New Dealers.  Some individuals blackened the character of various mint officials and otherwise tried to interfere with the mint.  Is it news to you that at the start we had free coinage? And that for years and years no means were provided to buy bullion? And that the mint cost hundreds of thousands of dollars more than was coined?"
                                           (Aug. 5, 1938)
 
"The Quad Cities Coin Club of Davenport is working hard on the juvenile end of collecting and as a special project is preparing packets for young people."
                                           (Oct. 6, 1938)
(Note: Many clubs began projects during this first year of INA and re­ported on them at conventions or wrote about them to the INA editor.)
 
 
"Down in Burlington, Margaret Vandevert, teller at the Farmers and Mer­chants Savings Bank, took an 1862 $2 bill, fine condition, over the counter the other day,  This same teller, a collector herself, handed yours truly (Ted R, Hammer) a 1922 plain cent in fine condition along with some change recently.”
                                           (Aug. 5, 1938)
 
"Every bidder in the INA auction will receive FREE copy of prices re­ceived at the October 16 auction."
                                           (Oct. 6, 1938)
 
"(INA) Secretary W. M. (Bill) Baker of Davenport has worked out a special system for INA auctions.  Each lot will be in an envelope to which will be attached the lot number, description, price bought, purchaser, etc., to be filled out in duplicate, at the same time giving this information on the envelope which goes to the purchaser.  This will be tried out by the Quad-Cities Club of Davenport.”
                                           (Dec. 5, 1938)
 
“V. Leon Belt, who has one of the finest U.S. collections in the entire middle west, began collecting in 1893 when his father brought home a Columbian commemorative from the World Fair.”
"His father operated a store, which proved a help to the youth's hobby — up to a point. The store was robbed and all his coins were stolen. It was only then however, that he took up the hobby seriously.”
                                           (Dec. 5, 1938)
 
“Walter Bohler of Ames, an INA director, was appointed district secretary of the ANA to fill the terra of Earl Cole who had to resign because of health.”
                                           (Oct. 25, 1938)
(Note: Mr. Bohler was one of many INA officers who also served in exec­utive positions with the ANA.  These men and the offices they filled will be listed later.)
 
 
“Jefferson’s home is shown on the reverse of the new 5 cent piece to demonstrate you can’t get far from home on a nickel.”
                                           (Dec, 5, 1938)
 
*             *            *
 
The INA held its state convention in Des Moines on October 16, 1938 with 81 members in the organization and $44.73 in the treasury.  Guest speaker was John Adams, secretary of the Des Moines Chamber of Commerce, who asked the INA to support a measure to get a centennial coin for the 100th anniversary of Iowa statehood in 1946.  This action was unanimously approved by members.
 
It was announced that the INA constitution and by-laws had been completed and filed in the Polk County Recorder's Office.  The INA was thus incorporated.
 
Members voted unanimously that a president could serve two years in succession and that a retiring president would automatically take his place on the board of directors.  It was also voted that five members from three counties would constitute a quorum.
 
M. Vernon Sheldon, secretary of the ANA, exhibited the applications of Iowa's three oldest ANA members, all from Cedar Rapids:  l) Charles Briggs, No. 307, who became a member in May, 1901 at the age of 42.  His sponsor was Dr. Heath, founder of the ANA; 2) B. H. Saxton, No. 921, became a member in September, 1907 at age 31.  He was also sponsored by Dr, Heath: 3) Bert Gillham, No, 1369, became a member in 1910.  He was sponsored by B. Max Mehl.
 
W. M. Baker submitted to the convention a design for an INA seal and emblem.  Baker designed the emblem with proposed minor changes by J, Henri Ripstra. The seal was to be the size of a silver dollar in split planchet effect, showing a partially shucked ear of corn centered on design.  The word "Iowa" was to be in larger lettering than “Numismatic Association”.  The organizational date was to be placed upon the field of the seal or the corn leaves. No definite decision was made by the convention concerning the seal.
 
Baker was appointed to fill the unexpired term of Earl M. Cole who re­signed as secretary-treasurer because of health.
 
A suggestion was made at the Board of Directors meeting that the auctio­neer announce, before the sale, that all coins offered at auction had been carefully classified by a committee.  Purchasers of coins had to make any complaints on purchases to this committee before the close of the sale and abide by the committee's decision as to disposal of their claim. No exchanges could be made after the sale.

All lots were on exhibition at least one hour prior to the sale,  The auctioneer accepted no bids under 10 cents to start a lot: no advance under 5 cents; no advance under 10 cents after the price reached $2.00; no advance under 25 cents after $5.00 and no bid under 50 cents after $10.00.  All INA members could bid on auction lots by mail or in person.
 
There was no charge for executing bids. Members bidding by mail were charged postage and insurance on their lots received in addition to the cost of the lot.  Persons submitting auction material were permitted no reserve but could enter protective bids by mail or from the floor.  A person bidding in his own material was charged 5 cents per lot to cover costs.  No claims were allowed unless the fault of the cataloguers and no lots were exhibited during the sale.
 
Following are some of the coins and the prices they were sold for at the auction:
 
1856 Flying Eagle small cent, about fine-$17.00
1836 Milled edge half dollar, Rare, Ext. Fine-$10.50
1870-S half dollar, V, Fine-$3.50
Boone 1937 Set commemorative half dollar, 3 mints, Brill. Unc.-$23.50
1883-0 silver dollar, Brill. Unc.-$3.60
1904-S silver dollar, Unc.-$4.40
1906 Proof Set (5 pieces)-$5.25
1907 Proof Set (5 pieces)-$5.00
Colonial Bar Cent, original, strictly unc.-$ll.00
1791 Washington Cent, Large Eagle, Unc. Proof Surface-$7.00
1855 Large Copper Cent, Flying Eagle, Large Wreath, Bronze, V, Fine-$4.50
1858 Small Cent, Large Flying Eagle, Laurel Wreath, Copper-Nickel, Brill,
     Proof-$7.50
1858 Small Cent, Indian Head, Oak Wreath and broad shield, Copper-Nickel,
     Brill, Proof-$9.00
1884 Small Cent, Thin planchet, small hole in center, Nickel, Brill,
     Proof-$10.50
1905 Lewis and Clark Gold Dollar, Brill. Unc.-$13.25
1878 $3 Gold Ext, Fine-$6.75
1849 #10 Gold, Moffat & Co. , Ten Dol., V, Fine Very rare-$52.50 *
1896 $2 Silver Certificate, Science presenting steam and electricity
     to commerce and manufacture, Tillman and Morgan, V. Fine-$3.10
1919-D Quarter, Brill. Unc., Rare-$7.25
1923-S Quarter, Brill. Unc., Very rare-$12.75
1909-S VDB, small cent, Unc,-$2
1914-D small cent, V, Fine-$1.20
* Highest price realized at auction.
Many of the coins listed above have increased greatly in value in the past 25 years.  However, a quick glance at 1938 INA receipts for services and items purchased shows that, just as many coins have gone up, so has the cost of living.
 
The INA paid in 1938 $1.50 for the recording fee for articles of incorp­oration, $10 for a duplicator and paper for the INA bulletin, $.60 per person for the Iowa City luncheons and $.75 per person for the Des Moines luncheons, $4 for police protection for the Des Moines exhibits and for rubber stamps, which now cost more than a dollar, $.25 each.

 
GROWTH AND RECOGNITION
 
Building Prestige
 
Many officers of the Iowa Numismatic Association went on to gain national recog­nition in numismatics. Ted R. Hammer and Earl M. Cole, first president and secretary-treasurer of I.N.A. respectively, were district secretaries of A.N.A. at the time of their election. Cole resigned because of illness and was replaced as district secre­tary by another I.N.A. member, Walter Bohler.
 
Hammer was appointed national chairman of Coin Week in 1939 and later became curator and librarian of A.N.A.  He used experience which he gained editing the I.N.A, Bulletin to good advantage and became a widely read coin columnist.
 
V. Leon Belt, former I.N.A, president, became First Vice President and later sat on the Board of Governors of A.N.A, Burton H. Saxton, former I.N.A. secretary-treasurer and president, was appointed business manager of A.N.A. and editor of "The Numismatist”.  In 1947, I.N.A. members filled 7 of 13 A.N.A. posts and by 1948, the number rose to 8, headed by A.N.A. President Loyd B. Gettys, former I.N.A. president.
 
Joint Convention
 
Approximately 400 numismatists attended the successful joint convention of I.N.A. and the Central States Numismatic Society in April, 1940 at Burlington. B. Max Mehl and Professor R. E. Davis were the principle speakers. A sad aftermath of the convention was the news that Professor Davis, who had been just elected C.S.N.S. president and who had been ill at the convention, died six days later.
 
Many visitors viewed the excellent displays at the joint convention.  They were called the finest seen in the Midwest. The I.N.A. Board of Directors decided it would be impossible to properly judge the displays of noted dealers and the numerous displays of rarities prepared by members of both associations. Therefore, the coin awards for display were turned over to the Association for sale at the auction with the money going to the Association's treasury.
 
In addition to the principle speakers, there were prominent numismatists and dealers from all parts of the country including: J. Henri Ripstra, Lee Hewitt and M. Vernon Sheldon, Chicago; A. B. Kelley, St. Louis: A. A. Grinnel and George Needels, Detroit; Arthur Grav, Saginaw, Michigan; Eric Newman, St. Louis: A. Kosoff, New York; Jim Kelley, Dayton; M. H. Bolender, Freeport, Illinois; John Snow, St. Louis and Bans Schulman, Antwerp, Holland and New York.
 
The I.N.A. seal; co-designed by Miss Marjorie Ankeny and W. M. Baker, had been approved in 1939,  J. Henri Ripstra surprised I.N,A. members at the 1940 joint con­vention by having ready for sale small bronze buttons which he had struck.  They carried the I.N.A. seal in relief and looked somewhat like ancient coins.

Supplies Proof
 
Russell Daniel, a U.S. Secret Service agent, who had addressed the May, 1939 convention on counterfeiting, proved that he knew what he was talking about several months later when he made arrests in Ottumwa which broke up a counterfeiting ring.
 
Auctions to Dealer
 
The I N.A. Board of Directors decided in 1941 that future auctions would be given to a responsible dealer because of the great amount of work performed by auction committees, the lack of available material and the small commission realized in past auctions which did not compensate adequately for the work involved.
 
Mrs. Betty Laurent was appointed I.N.A. historian and curator in 1940 and began compiling a Scrap Book Record of interesting Iowa numismatic items.
 
J. Henri Ripstra was awarded a special medal, for all his services to INA, since its birth, at the May, 1941 convention in Davenport.
 
Shoo the Members In
 
C. David Pierce expressed concern at the 1942 meeting in Des Moines that perhaps conventioneers were enjoying themselves a little too much.  He proposed a committee of ten to act as Sergeants-at-Arms to "shoo the members out of the display rooms, away from the bourse tables, into the meeting and to see that the members conducted themselves with decorum".  The motion was carried unanimously.
 
Another successful joint convention was held with the Central States Numismatic Society in May, 1942 at Des Moines, At the semi-annual convention in Muscatine that October, I.N.A. members were relieved to learn that the government would not try to collect coins from Iowa’s coin collectors.  Burton H. Saxton read a letter from the Treasury Department saying, due to the nature and purpose of I.N.A., it would not be subject to income tax.
War Priorities
 
Programs, tokens and badges from the October, 1942 convention were sent to I.N.A. members in the armed forces.  Loyd B. Gettys reported that government priorities prevented preparation of medals for the convention.  One hundred were on hand with only the obverse struck.  Members were told that, when conditions permitted, 50 would be struck for the convention and those who had registered would be notified.
 
Past I.N.A. President V. Leon Belt extended an invitation in 1942 to A.N.A. to hold their national convention in Iowa in 1946, which marked the centennial of Iowa statehood,
 
I.N.A Bulletins continued to carry interesting news such as this Associated Press item from Canada during the war which said a 12-sided nickel of copper and zinc had been put in circulation.  It was called a "blackout nickel" because its distinctive shape made it identifiable in the dark.

The I.N.A. adopted and sent a proposal in October, 1943 to Governor B. B. Hickenlooper to extend the 1946 Iowa Centennial to World's Fair status.  Hickenlooper acknowledged the proposal in a news release and said Iowa's resources and facilities would have to be studied extensively to decide the feasibility of the project.
 
Honor Roll
 
The Honor Roll of I.N.A. members serving their country read as follows in 1944: Warren Alien, Muscatine; Richard Albaush, Ames; G. W. Borschell, Cedar Rapids; Harry Boosel and Lee Hewitt, Chicago; Everett Dietz, Kenneth Hunt and W, E. Ruebush, Waterloo; Lewis Ferguson, Algona; Carl Kynell, Sioux City; Paul and Arthur Kagin, Des Moines; J. J. Rasper, Guttenburg; Stanley Smith, Burlington and James Malloy, Muscatine.
 
I.N.A. had two honorary members in 1944, Carl F. Hodek of Vinton and Dr. Walter Norera of Muscatine, who was serving in a hospital in Iran.
 
Two important resolutions were adopted at the May, 1944 convention in Cedar Rapids.  The first was that I.N.A. would work for a commemorative silver dollar for the 1946 Centennial and the second was to make every effort to secure the 1946 A.N.A. convention for Iowa.
 
Escapes Invasion
 
Principle speaker at the convention was Hans M. F. Schulraan who came to New York from Holland in 1939 just ahead of the German Invasion.  Schulraan established a coin house in New York which specialized in foreign coins, mainly from the Netherlands.  He spoke on Netherlands history and described certain Allied operations to combat the Germans.  The coins exhibited at this convention were valued at about $400,000, one of the most expensive collections ever assembled at a state convention at that time.
 
Due to wartime restrictions on travel and accommodations, the I.N.A. Board of Directors decided to cancel the 1945 spring convention and hold a business meeting for officers and directors on May 6, in Iowa City. Mrs. Hellene Bohler was appointed I.N.A. Bulletin editor.  One meeting a year in May was recommended.  No fall meeting was held in 1945, again on action by the Board of Directors.
 
The first I.N.A, convention held out of Iowa took place in Omaha, Nebraska in May, 1947. Motions were carried that I.N.A, begin writing a history of Iowa numismatics and that 18-year-olds of good moral character could become I.N.A. members and 12-year-olds could become junior members without voting or office-holding privileges.
 
Pieces of Eight
 
Dr. J. Jewitt Judd, foremost authority on pattern coins and member of A.N.A. Board of Governors, addressed the convention. Elmer Laurent exhibited the world's smallest coin, the “Gangu of Kolinga," minted in India about 1150 A,D, and worn on tiny chains attached to the nose to show friends that the wearer had so much cash he didn’t know what to do with it all.  Don C. Reefer exhibited the world's largest silver coin, minted in Madrid in 1637. Reefer also explained, in a feature article in the Omaha World-Herald, that the quarter was called "two-bits" because it replaced the Spanish Two Real Piece. Reefer displayed his collection of Spanish pieces of eight, minted in Mexico and Peru from 1580 to 1750.
 
Jackass Bill
 
Loyd B. Gettys had a 1689 ten-dollar note, the first in which silk threads were used.  The note was called the "jackass $10" and was, according to legend, an English engraver's joke on the United States.  The engraver drew an eagle on the note in such a way that, inverted, it is the head of a mule.
 
F. K. Saab, Egyptian collector, had rare Siamese gold bullet money.  One piece was the size of a filling for a tooth.
 
Vernon L. Brown of the Chase National Bank addressed the May, 1948 convention on "Moneys of the World". At this meeting, the date of the annual convention was changed to the fall, either October or November.
 
Coins Proposed
 
The I.N.A passed a resolution calling for immediate minting and circulation of U.S. coins of 2½, 7½, and 12½ cent denominations in addition to the existing coinage. The purpose was to halt price inequities and inflationary trends in the national economy.
 
The 10th Anniversary Convention of I.N.A. was held in Ottumwa in November, 1948. Coins valued at $500,000 were exhibited.
 
A.N.A Loyd B. Gettys exhibited his outstanding collection of U S. paper money, silver coins and double eagles and double and triple foreign crown thalers, including medical, religious and historical thalers.  (The thaler was the forerunner of the dollar.)
 
Lester S. Wright, I.N.A, President, showed his medals including one struck for each U.S. President, a Lincoln medal group and an assortment struck for artists and musicians.
 
First prize for coin exhibits went to Delzell N. Green for his collection of large cents, all dates and many varieties, his paper currency and Cherokee nation bill photo­stats (originals in Chase National Bank), postage currency, ancients, colonials and medals.
 
Youth Saluted
 
At this convention which celebrated ten years of Iowa numismatic growth, special recognition was given to the numismatic leaders of the future.  Junior Collector Awards were given to Darrell Staats, Tommy Hart, Marsha Ann Workman and Donald Fackler, all of Ottumwa, the host city.
 
Recession and Comeback
 
The Iowa Numismatic Association almost perished in 1950.  President Lester S. Wright had been moved by his company from Davenport to Kansas City and had to resign. The 1949 meeting at Ottumwa had been poorly attended, disappointing dealers as well as members present.  No call apparently was issued for a fall meeting and there was none, nor was there a spring meeting in 1950.
 
A special meeting was called for July 16, 1950.  It was held, fittingly, in Iowa City, birthplace of the association.  Acting President Laurent made a few remarks on the state of the association.  I.N.A. carried 163 active members on its rolls and a treasury balance of $296.71 at this time of near dissolution.  Laurent put the question squarely: Did the membership wish the Association to continue to exist? The membership did — unanimously.
 
Robert Stahl, representing the Cedar Rapids Stamp and Coin Clubs, extended an invitation at this meeting for I.N.A. to hold a 1950 fall convention in Cedar Rapids in conjunction with the Mid-Century Stamp and Coin Exhibition with no convention expense to I.N.A.  The gracious offer was accepted and a $25 token of appreciation was voted to the Cedar Rapids Clubs.
 
A letter, mailed through the instigation of D. N. Green of Fairfield, was sent to I,N.A. active and former members.  It pointed out that I.N.A., was once the largest and most active state coin association in the nation and urged participation in the fall convention at the Hotel Montrose in Cedar Rapids to restore I.N.A. status.  The letter ended with the quote:  "Enjoy life while you live for you will be a long time dead.”
 
An advertisement was drawn up and $18.75 worth of space taken in "the Numismatist" to announce the fall convention.  One of the most important steps taken at the July meeting was election of new officers and Elmer Laurent, who had called the meeting, was elected president.
 
The convention was held September 23 and 24.  The Regional Meeting of the American Philatelic Society and the Boy Scouts of America Exhibition were also held at the same time in conjunction with the Mid-Century Exhibition.  The I.N.A. convention was a success and thirteen new members were signed on the spot.  I.N.A. had begun a successful comeback.
 
At the conclusion of the May, 1951 convention in Burlington, the members all stood and expressed their thanks to the officers and all who worked for a successful convention and the general comeback of I.N.A.
 
Speakers Again
 
Distinguished speakers were once again featured at conventions. Colonel James Curtis, A.N A. Vice President, spoke on "Coins of Egypt" in November, 1951 at Des Moines. Ninety-nine members attended this convention including seven A.N.A. officers and four past presidents of I.N.A.
 
The May 1952 meeting was convened on a sad note.  President Elmer Laurent, who had been a driving force in the re-birth and revitalization of I.N.A., had died.  His work, however, and that of other members was paying off.  By fall, thirty new members had joined the association since its re-activation.
 
First Flight
 
Lewis M. Reagan, general secretary of A.N.A., drove 1400 miles to be guest speaker at the fall convention in 1952 at Davenport.  He told the convention that he had flown more than 200,000 miles to attend numismatist meetings. His first flight had been to an I.N.A. meeting in Des Moines.
 
Fifteen years of I.N.A. activity were noted at the fall meeting in Cedar Rapids in 1953.  Gold lapel pins were presented to former presidents and Mrs. Betty Laurent read a newly compiled history of I.N.A.
 
Mr. and Mrs. C. David Pierce sponsored the 1954 fall convention in Ottumwa after no bid had been entered by any city or club.
 
A vigorous membership drive was conducted in 1954-55 with a resulting increase of 65 new paid memberships which brought the total to 190 members in 15 states.
 
Credit Due
 
Much of the credit for this drive belonged to President Burton H. Saxton and Secretary-Treasurer Mrs. Betty Laurent.  Saxton traveled to numismatist meetings across the state, issued personal bulletins and wrote letters to every new I.N.A. member as well as prospective members. Mrs. Laurent urged members to help the membership drive in the I.N.A. Bulletin.  She sent letters to every new A.N.A, member living in Iowa who had not joined I.N.A.  The efforts of both paid off handsomely.
 
Education Important
 
For several years, noted speakers were not enlisted for I.N.A. conventions, When Dr. John Davenport, author of several books on Dollar and Crown Size pieces, spoke at the 1960 fall convention in Davenport, his address was hailed in the I.N.A. Bulletin.  It was pointed out to members that I.N.A. should not just stress the com­mercial side of numismatics; the education of the "new crop of collectors" was not important.
 
The size and interest in conventions has grown with each recent convention.  In 1961, the convention was held in Marshalltown and in 1962, it was held at Ottumwa with a record number of coin dealers and collectors present.  In the past 25 years, the convention has been held in almost every corner of Iowa and once out of the state in Omaha.
 
The Iowa Numismatic Society, first state organization of its kind, has 25 years to look back on proudly.  Included in the October festivities will be presentation of life memberships to charter members still in the association. A noted speaker will address the convention. Further details will be announced later.  The aim of the convention will be to start the I.N.A. on its next 25 years with an impetus that will carry the association to even greater heights than those realized in the first 25 memorable and illustrious years.
 
HISTORY OF THE IOWA NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION—PARTS I AND II.
 
COMPILED AND EDITED BY DEAN OAKES, SECRETARY-TREASURER, IOWA NUMISMATIC ASSOCIATION.   1963

I.N.A. Presidents and the terms they served:
 

Ted R. Hammer	1938-39
V. Leon Belt	1940-41
M. A. Radke	1942-43
Loyd B. Gettys	1944-45
C. David Pierce	1946-47
Lester S. Wright	1948-49
Elmer Laurent	1950-51 (Died in Office)
Charles Altraan	1951-54
Burton H. Saxton	1955-56
Harold Baker	1957-58
Lewis K. Ferguson	1959-60
Wyard Troja	1961-62
Don Jenson	1963

Part II 1963-1988

 
(The Iowa Numismatic Association will celebrate its 50th (Gold) Anniversary at its annual convention September 30, October 1 and 2, 1988 in Iowa City, Iowa. Following are some of the highlights of the last 25 years.)
 
October 4, 5, 6, 1963 marked the Silver Anniversary of INA in Sioux City, Iowa. A 1796 XF dime sold at auction for $810; 1793 VF half cent sold for $405; 1928 St. Gauden $20 gold piece sold for $62.50; 1824 divided date uncirculated cent rated by Walter Breen as 3rd finest in the world sold for $107; 1818 $3 gold piece sold for $177.50. Members reelected the entire slate of officers:

President                    Don W. Jensen
Vice President            Philip Budd
2nd Vice President     Kenneth Benedict
Secretary/Treasurer    Dean Oakes
Historian W.E.           Van Hook
Board of Directors     John Alvey
                                   Golbly C. Uhlir
                                   Albert Eidt
                                  Wyard Troja
                                  Bill Ott
 
Thirty-two dealers and 1,200 visitors attended. The following Charter Members were honored with life memberships:
     Walter P. Bohler
     Lewis K. Ferguson
     T.J. Barnes
     A.R. Goodman
     Andrew Klitgaard
     M.A. Radke
     Arnold Swanson
     Paul Campbell
     Lee F. Hewett
     F. W. Alien
     Earl Petitt
     A.M. Kagin
     E.J. Asthalter
     Lauren Benson
     Lester S. Wright
 
It was decided to present a Best of Show award at all shows sponsored by any of the 19 member clubs. It was to be engraved "Best of Show awarded by INA (year)." It may be won by a person only one time during the course of a year. A motion was made for a $50 donation to be given annually to the Lewis M. Reagon Memorial Fund as long as the group is financially able to continue. Another motion was made to donate a $50 check to the drive to replace the coin collection stolen from the Truman Library. This was the year that Eugene Morris had a large portion of his national bank note collection stolen.
 
1964 convention was held in Cedar Rapids with Joseph Marshek (President of Cedar Rapids Coin Club) and James Reed serving as Co-Chairmen of Bourse. Don W. Jensen won the 1st place award with his complete set of 1954-1889 $3 gold coins - one of 5 or 6 complete sets in existence. There were 9 categories for exhibits. An 1890 Indian cent sold for $955 at auction.
 
At the Directors meeting held in March of 1965 it was voted that INA: adopt ANA judging rules for all exhibits at conventions; trade the mimeograph for a typewriter; authorize $65 for a typewriter to be used for the INA Bulletin; contribute $100 (first installment of 5 year program) to ANA Building Fund if INA finances permit. INA strongly recommended Dubuque, Iowa be considered site of the ANA Home.
 
September 1965 saw 439 paid up members, 46 paid up clubs and a balance on hand of $954.71. There were approximately $350,000 of value in coins on display as exhibits and for sale. 6,000 attended the 3 day event with 65 exhibits (10 categories) and 150 persons attended the banquet. There were 30 dealers and an 800 lot auction was held with the following realized:
1856 Flying Eagle cent in proof     $2,900
1783 Cent $1,050
1869 Indian Head Cent   $ 375
Also a Civil War penny token made by the "New York Store” in Cedar Rapids was on the auction list.
 
The 100 member strong coin club in Fort Dodge sponsored the 1966 convention. Bill Mertes exhibited his 1879 $4 gold piece (Stella) ($5,000 value) and $50 round California gold piece minted by Wass Monitor and Company in 1855 ($6,000 value). A 50 cent door prize ticket gave you a chance to win: 1st prize, $20 gold piece; 2nd prize, $10 gold piece; 3rd prize, $5.00 gold piece. Chester Krause of Numismatic News spoke at the banquet. Iowa Depression script was featured in an auction held by Dean Oakes of A & A Coins, Iowa City. Registration reached 1,000. President Philip Budd wanted to secure something suitable in the way of medals or lapel pins.
 
In 1967 a new reverse for the INA medal - hawk in flight with an outline of our state boundary - was developed. 100 silver and 250 bronze were struck selling for $5.00 and 2.00 respectively. Members and visitors to the convention were treated to an exhibit of the finest known uncut sheet of rare national bank notes from the 1st National Bank of Fairbanks, Alaska (value over $5,000).
 
In 1968 there were two outstanding noncompetitive exhibits on display: the 1913 Liberty Head Nickel owned by Aubrey Bebee of Bebee's, Inc. of Omaha, Nebraska and the original plaster casts of the Iowa Commemorative with letters of authentication from Adam Peitz. There were 33 exhibitors entering 41 exhibits in competition for awards. R.S. Yeoman (25 year member) spoke at the banquet. Roy Lawrence died this year - he and his brother were famous for their news media "The Coin Collector." Secretary of the Treasury, Miss Eva Adams was invited to attend the convention. The INA placed into office a husband and wife team - Bill Ott, President and Martha Ott, Secretary/Treasurer. Board of Directors was enlarged. Every association member had a chance to nominate and vote for a candidate of his choice where in the past only members who attended the business meeting at the convention had that opportunity.

The 1969 convention was held in Des Moines. The billion dollar exhibit of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing of the Treasury Department attracted a great deal of attention during the convention. Six states were represented by 34 dealers, more than 2,000 attended seeing 39 displays and the banquet cost $6.00. Alien Schrock won Best of Show, Jack Huggins 1st place in US Coins and L.L. Owen 1st place in paper money.
 
In 1970 Dean Oakes was named President of INA. The Cedar Rapids Coin Club, Marion Collectors Club and Old Capitol Coin Club sponsored this event with John and Marlene Kelso as official host and hostess. The Vern Clark Memorial Award (given in memory of the late Iowa dealer) went to Paul Lyons of Burlington. Clem Bailey of Numismatic News was guest speaker at the banquet.
 
At the 1971 convention the Treasury Departments Bureau of Engraving and Printing exhibited an uncut sheet of $100 bills, a $100,000 bill as well as a $5,000 and $10,000. Also on display was a printing press demonstrating the printing of currency. Richard S. Yeoman addressed the INA awards breakfast. Father Greteman won Best of Show for his US Barber exhibit.
 
Keokuk, Iowa was the site of the 1972 convention with Eric Newman, from St. Louis, the breakfast speaker. His talk was on “Rare and Unusual Library Items That Make Numismatics Interesting.” Mr. Newman is the author of “1804 Silver Dollar” and has written several books on colonial currency. Thirty-five dealers representing Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Iowa were present on the bourse floor. Charter member T.J. Barnes of Norwalk, Iowa, was recognized as having never missed an Iowa State Convention since 1938. President Dean Oakes served on the Iowa American Revolution Bicentennial Commission as a judge (one of 12) in the semi finalist competition for Iowa's bicentennial medal being struck by Franklin Mint. If a design acceptable to the panel of judges is chosen, it will become the official 1776-1976 medal for Iowa. The Franklin Mint was represented at the convention by Dan and Irene Harley of Hot Springs, Arkansas.
 
In 1973 members reminisced of 12 or more years ago when numismatics literally exploded with action. Everything numismatic soared to unbelievable heights. Over a period of 9 or 10 years tranquility existed but now again the prices for choice type, gold, commemoratives, silver dollars and some rolls began to soar again to unbelievable heights. A bill was introduced to the US Senate to allow public ownership of gold, known as the Par Value Modification Act. Port City Coin Club contributed 184 numismatic reference books to public libraries and school libraries in the Muscatine area purchased with net proceeds of annual coin shows held each year since 1959. In addition, during the last several years they also donated 200 or more numismatic reference books to the Veterans’ Hospital at Iowa City and arranged with club funds for 5 different numismatic newspapers and magazines to be mailed each month. The club also made cash contributions to the Muscatine Junior Chamber building fund, the Muscatine Chamber of Commerce Flag Fund, the ANA Building and authentication funds and the Lewis Regan Memorial fund. (What a wonderful history for the Port City Coin Club to have!!) The General Services Administration sold 700,000 of the Carson City dollars at $30.00 each and had 1.6 million left. Bids were reopened April of 1973. Gold was $100 an ounce.
 
Des Moines was the site of the 1974 convention. Eugene Morris was named president. There were 41 dealers and 30 exhibits. Daniel C. Parker, President of Central States Numismatic Society, spoke at the Sunday Awards Breakfast.

Secretary-Treasurer JoAnn Peters reported 10 living charter members in 1975. The Board of Directors approved a new "Winner's Circle” trophy beginning in 1976. Bill Ott, past president, passed away. Franklin Mint representative Dan Harley was banquet speaker. Metal life membership cards were approved and INA conventions will be held alternately in Des Moines. Dues were $2.00 for adults and juniors. Secretary's report shows 277 paid up members, 30 life members, and 25 paid up clubs.
 
In 1976 we saw bicentennial sets minted and a $2 bill released in April. A new bicentennial plaque was designed for Best of Show trophy. Veteran midwestern numismatist, 2nd Vice President Lowell Owen passed away. The "Winners Circle" was opened to previous winners of the Best of Show trophy. W.E. Van Hook, serving as INA Historian from 1956-76, retired. Charter Member Paul Campbell became the new Historian.
 
Fortieth anniversary medal reverse (only) designs were called for in 1977 with Jack Pohl winning the design contest. Don Mark was voted in as our 1st show co-ordinator to handle the stress of duplicate scheduling of shows. Five charter members (of the 10 living) attending the evening banquet were honored:
     Lewis Ferguson
     Everett Dietz
     Walter Bohler
     Arthur Kagin
     Paul Campbell
 
INA purchased the historical collection from Van Hook for $550. Art Kagin started donations toward the purchase and Don Mark made the 1st item addition.
 
The Eisenhower Silver dollar was a hot item in 1978 at the convention in Davenport. There were 85 dealers representing 12 states on the bourse floor. Bulk silver was being bought and electronic counters were in great evidence. The most valuable coin on display was a 1795 half dime worth about $14,500. R.S. Yeoman acted as one of the exhibit judges. We had 22 exhibitors with Bill Houser taking Best of Show with his $2 bill exhibit. Bill Higgins opened a museum in the spring of this year in Okoboji, Iowa, housing his national bank notes from each town in Iowa. His collection is missing only 12 notes of being complete.
 
Our beloved historian for 20 years, W.E. Van Hook passed away in 1979. Dues were raised to $3. Central States Numismatic Society officials held their interim meeting at our 1979 convention. Margo Russell, Editor of Coin World, was the breakfast speaker. Charter Member T.J. Barnes (90 years of age) attended this year's convention in a wheelchair. Burlington Coin Club celebrated their 40th Anniversary. The Tri-County Coin Club of Perry, Iowa donated a Perry National Bank note to the Historian exhibit. There were 100 silver and 1,000 bronze INA 40th anniversary medals struck. #1-5 were auctioned and #40 was given to the Historian. The silver were $20 and were numbered and available 1 to a member. Glenn Baird won Best of Show with his Ottumwa National Bank Note exhibit entitled "Hometown USA." Eight year old Eric Kelso won 2nd place in the junior division with his quarter exhibit.
 
"Wildly erotic" bullion markets were taking place when we held our convention in Sioux City in 1980. A person could get $25 times face for silver and a lot of collectible coins found their way to the bullion pile.

INA hosted the ANA Certification Service Counterfeiting Seminars at the 1981 convention held in Des Moines. There were a record number of bourse dealers. President of CSNS, Ralph Hardman Jr. was the awards breakfast speaker. Philip Budd, INA President 1965 and 1966 passed away. Clarion Coin Club challenged all clubs in Iowa and INA to a membership drive contest with Oskaloosa wining with a 106% increase. Largest membership award went to Keokuk with 132 members. A proposal was made to change districts.
 
Ted Hammer, one of the founders and 1st president of INA died at 78 years in March, 1982. Clint Koever was sent to Colorado Springs with an all expense paid INA scholarship to the ANA Youth Seminar this summer. Half dollars were popular with exhibitors at this year's convention. JoAnn Peters was honored on retiring after 10 years service as Secretary/Treasurer serving under 5 presidents. Clarion Club challenged all to another membership contest again. Cedar Rapids Coin Club hosted the Central States Numismatic Society convention at the Five Seasons Center. Iowa Obsolete Notes and Script was published by Dean Oakes, Iowa City, Iowa.
 
Paul Campbell, Charter Member and Historian from 1976 passed away in May, 1983. John Hickman and Dean Oakes issued a 1216 page Standard Catalog of National Bank Notes. An updated Constitution and Bylaws and convention manual was approved by the membership October, 1983. INA Board invited all Club Presidents or representatives of clubs to the INA board meetings for their input. There was art increase from 11 to 15 directors. Banquet tickets now cost $15.
 
Seven districts were established in 1984. Charter Member, Lewis Ferguson authored a 2nd issue of “Iowa Trade Tokens” with 520 pages. Fred Carson of Albert Lea, Minnesota was presented with a trophy by the Forest City Coin Club commemorating 25 years as a dealer and member of the club. The convention this year was held in Fort Dodge with 31 dealers representing Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Minnesota and Nebraska. Cliff Mishler spoke at the banquet. Don Watts, Clarion Coin Club, has written the Clarion Coin Collectors bulletin since 1958. Bob and Marilyn Douglas were appointed Historians.
Waterloo hosted the 1985 convention with 67 dealers in attendance. This was the year David Banford won 4 exhibit awards. Best of Show went to Nevin Roberts. Seminar speakers were Bob Hendershott, Art Kagin, Ralph Allan, Ron Lashmit, Don Mark, and Owen McKee. Helen Wallace passed away in December.
 
In 1986 the tax on bullion sales loomed in the horizon. The commemorative centennial of the Statue of Liberty was proposed. The silver dollar would be emblematic of the use of Ell is Island as a gateway for immigrants to America. The half dollar would honor the contributions of immigrants to America. The sale of the gold, silver and copper nickel coins will raise up to 137.5 million to pay for the restoration of the Statue of Liberty and Ell is Island. One-quarter ounce gold, silver dollars (each with 3/4 ounce of silver) and copper-nickel half dollars will be struck. ANA President Florence Shook attended this convention placing a special emphasis on the junior collector and also served as banquet speaker. INA dues were raised from $3 to $5. A major collection, Iowa National Bank Currency, billed as the largest group of Iowa nationals ever shown at a coin show was on display at the Des Moines Convention Center for the fall convention. Theme of the show was “A Coin Club Remembers: Des Moines Club turns '50’!” The following presented seminars to members and visitors:
 
     Youth in Numismatics                      Florence Shook
     Ancient Bizentine Coins:
     Ugly, Forgotten, Fascinating            Ralph Allen
     Coins of the Bible                            Bob Hendershott
     Post Cards - the connecting link to
     National Bank Notes                        Don Mark
     Iowa Centennial Medals                  Charles Moore
     Iowa Trade Tokens                           Louis Ferguson
 
In 1987 a tax on the sale of coins became a concern to everyone in numismatics. A letter writing campaign to the state representatives was suggested to ask them to support a repeal of sales tax on numismatic items. There was enough money raised by CSNS Governor Florence Shook to purchase 100 of the old CSNS cases for INA. Also included in the donation to INA was enough money to inscribe nameplates to be mounted on the cases. A call for the 50th Anniversary medal design was made.
 
Past president Jim Hamling passed away early in 1988. 1988 - Old Capitol Coin Club and Cedar Rapids Coin Club have joined forces to sponsor the Iowa Numismatic Association's 50th Anniversary Convention in Iowa City - what more fitting a place to hold this memorable occasion than in Iowa City where the Iowa Numismatic Association had its beginning back in June, 1938.
 
History of the Iowa Numismatic Association - Part III
Compiled and Edited by Marilyn M. Douglas, Historian
Iowa Numismatic Association, 1988
 

INA Presidents and the terms they served:
 
                   Don Jensen             1963-1964
                   Philip L. Budd        1965-1966
                   Kenneth Benedict   1967-1968
                   Bill Ott                    1969-1970
                   Dean Oakes             1971-1972
                   Vince Davis             1973-1974
                   Eugene Morris         1975-1976
                   John Kelso               1977-1978
                   Harry Peters             1979-1980
                   Don Mark                 1981-1982
                   James Hamling         1983-1984
                   Marjorie Owen         1985-1986
                   Robert Douglas        1987-1988
 

Part III 1989-2013

The Old Capitol Coin Club in Iowa City hosted the 75th Anniversary.  INA President Rusty Crawford provided this addition to cover the next 25 years, 1989-2013.

INTRODUCTION.  The Iowa Numismatic Association (INA) has had a storied existence from its beginning 75 years ago in Iowa City to the present day. The past twenty-five years, subject of this presentation, have seen the Association grow significantly and participate in several of the more exciting aspects of the numismatic enterprise. From the end of the Hunt brothers silver buying binge through the repeal of the Iowa state sales tax on coins, the issuance of the Iowa state quarter and the dismissal of the attempts to tax individuals and businesses on coin sales by way of mandatory form 1099 reporting, the INA has been there. Currently members are in the middle of the “rise of bullion” versus collecting with all of the attendant joy, challenge, and frustrations. Where that will lead is open to much speculation.
Throughout our seventy-five year history, the INA has been most fortunate to have numerous individuals willing to provide service and leadership for our association. I recommend that you look over the lists of individuals who have served as officers, board members, and specific staff persons. From 1989 to today they have helped us to be a strong viable force for numismatics in Iowa. Especially note the persons designated as Outstanding Numismatist. Whole pages can be written about their contributions to our association. We are greatly indebted to them for their efforts and time. That is not to belittle that which so many members of the INA have done to advance numismatics in Iowa. We all know members of the INA who serve and make us proud. Please thank them.
The future of our association is open. What will we do in and for the next twenty-five years?  What will those years bring? That which constitutes money is in flux and may well change as the “cashless society” moves forward. That in itself provides opportunities as we change with the future yet seek to preserve the coins and paper money of the past. One hope for the INA is that those who follow in our footsteps have an opportunity to become numismatists. Much of our future is in the “younger generations.” We do need to encourage youth to become numismatically ready. At the same time we have the challenge to encourage those in their 30’s, 40’s and 50’s to remain committed to this hobby. From their excitement and dedication to this hobby will come the leaders who move us toward that which began in 1938.

THE PEOPLE.
Outstanding Numismatist
    2007: Chris Seuntjens     2009: Bev Ashton     2011: Tom Robertson     2013:  Denny Ross

OFFICERS and BOARD MEMBERS, 1989-2013
President
            Jo Ann Peters, 1988-89            Tom Robertson, 2001-02
            Owen McKee, 1990-92            Scott Nichols, 2003-04
            Dean Peterson, 1993-94            Chris Seuntjens, 2004-06 & 2011-12
            Roger Wolver, 1995-96            John Jackson, 2007-08
            Gail McKee, 1997-98            Lee Roe, 2009-10
            Ward Kain, 1999-2000            A.E. Rusty Crawford, 2013-14

SECRETARY/TREASURER

           Robert Simon, 1989-90            Jo Ann Peters, 1990-1998            Bev Ashton, 1999-present

EDITOR OF “THE IOWA COLLECTOR”
        Owen McKee, 1989-1992                  Dan Jackson, 2004-05
        Keokuk Coin Club (Tom Gardner), 1993-94       Roger Rice, 2006
        Sioux Coin Club (Ron Thompson), 1994-95    David Stark, 2006-07
        Douglas Breyfogle, 1996-2003            Paul Heinen, 2012
                         Denny Ross,  2007-11 & 2012-present

LEGAL ADVISOR
            Robert Ulsted, 1989-93        Golby Uhlir, 1995-96         Vacant (since 1996)

BOARD MEMBERS
District 1:
Ward Kain-1989, Jack Glass, Tony Gardner, John Brixey, Dale Dye, Tom Robertson-2013
District 1a:
 Jack Glass-1999,  Clarence Mitchell-2013
District 2:
Rich Trytten-1989,  Brian Fanton, Robert Hamling, Nevin Roberts, Stan Miller, Lee Roe, Dean Parr, Ron Burns-2013
District 3:
Harry Peters-1989 & 2009-10 , Gene Bright, Marvin Rothmeyer, Steve Elwood, Dennis Emme, Don Wells-2013
District 4:
Lester Rominger-1989, Gail McKee, Lowell Carrell, George Shook, Harley Fenton, Clarence McKee, Denny Ross, Doug Van Den Berg-2013
District 5:
E. L. Victoria-1989, Don Mark, Scott Nichols, Sam Ashton-2013
District 6:
Charles Morse-1989,  Don McCulloch, John Jackson, Earl Peterson-2013
District 7:  
Leonard Owen-1989, Richard Trinity, Rusty Crawford, (vacant 9 of 25 years- incl 2013)
At Large (3-4 positions):
Dean Peterson, Kermit Neubauer, Robert Hamling, Brian Fanton, Don McCullough, Lester Rominger, Harry Peters, Tom Robertson, Dale Dye, Paul Becker, David Stark, Chris Seuntjens, John Jackson, Gorden Weber, Robert Simon, Ron Burns, George Shook.

Length of Service (for years in which data exists)
President: Chris Seuntjens - 4 years, eleven  others - 2 years each
Secretary/Treasurer: Bev Ashton - 15 years, JoAnn Peters – 8 years                                                                      
Length of Service cont’d
Collector Editor: Douglas Breyfogle – 7 years, Denny Ross – 6 years
Dist. 1:  Ward Kain and Tom Robertson each 7 years
Dist. 1a: Clarence Mitchell – 9 years, Jack Glass – 7 years
Dist. 2: Brian Fanton – 6 Years, Rich Tryten – 5 Years
Dist. 3: Dean Parr- 5 years, Harry Peters – 4 years
Dist. 4: Gail McKee – 7 ½ years
Dist. 5: Sam Ashton – 15 years, Scott Nichols – 5 years
Dist. 6: Don McCulloch – 9 years, Charles Morse – 4 years
Dist. 7: Richard Trinity, 11 years

NOTABLE ACTIVITIES and EVENTS

  1989-1991:

  1992-1995:
In 1992, the INA Articles of Incorporation were changed from that of a “specified term” to “perpetual.”. In the “corporate world” this is supposed to be a big deal of permanency.  A year later, the Articles and By-laws were published in full in the Collector. The same year, the Collector underwent a change in format. Membership continued upward with the addition of 30 new members in 1994-95 (no total membership numbers were published).  BTW: the cost for the 1995 INA dinner was $9.95 per person.

  1996-2003:
In 1998 there was a very interesting article published in the Collector concerning the INA founding convention of 1938. In that article there was a list of the names of the 88 Charter Members of our association (notable were the names Lee Hewitt, Art Kagin, and Joseph Stack). In that year, the Guidelines for a Young Numismatist Scholarship to the ANA summer seminar was presented. The 2000 Year began the long discussion and efforts to repeal the Iowa sales tax on coins. There were also discussions of “foot-dragging” at the state level concerning the design of the Iowa state quarter. The INA was still trying to sell the trailer and show cases. In ’03 a motion was passed to sell the trailer.  Through the efforts of Dean Parr the INA web site went on-line with an ANA hosted site in June of 2003.
NOTE: Comments were made concerning the various INA commemorative medals: 1938 (inaugural), 1946 (in conjunction with the ANA), 1978 (40th anniversary)  1998 (60th anniversary) and now 2013 for the 75th Anniversary.

  2004-2007:
The Industry Council for Tangible Assets (ICTA) prepared and provided a brochure related to the repeal of the sales tax on coins. Members were encouraged to make these available to the public.. The Iowa State quarter dollar debut occurred in 2004, with numerous pro and con comments: general approval and acceptance, though. Early in this time frame, the repeal of the sales tax on coins was still held up in the Iowa legislature.  The repeal was finally passed in 2006, ending an 8-year long effort. Chris Seuntjens, presented an excellent article about this landmark effort in the June 2006 Collector (see pp. 16 & 17). 2006 was the year that processes and procedures for the Outstanding Numismatist award were presented and finalized. The association also began to examine the question of where the annual INA show and meetings were to be held. These eventually culminated (2007) in the adoption of our present format: three years in Des Moines (2009, 2010, 2011), one year in the west (2012 –Ft, Dodge), one year in the east (2013 in Iowa City) , then repeat the process (i.e. 2014, 2015, 02016 in Des Moines). The Collector received a facelift and a new editor. Both were well received.

  2008-2010:
The Association Secretary reported that in 2008 our membership had reached 323 members. That was a very nice increase in the 19 years since the 100-148 members of 1989.  Chris Seuntjens was named the first recipient of the Outstanding Numismatist award (see Collector Spring 2008, p.17). The INA approved the web site as the official publication source for the association. There were numerous discussions concerning dealers leaving our show(s) early. These discussions were much in line with national level concerns about this “problem.” In 2012 a change was made to our show contract that required dealers to stay until 3PM on the last show day. Failure to stay at the show would result in early-leaving dealers losing any priorities at subsequent show set-ups.
Bev Ashton was named the second recipient of the Outstanding Numismatist award.
Notable Activities and Events, cont’d

  2011-2013:
Long discussions were begun concerning a bill in the U. S.  Congress that would require dealers to have an IRS Form 1099 filed for clients who spent $600 or more in a specific tax year. Very heated discussions were had and many concerns expressed. Fortunately, the bill failed making the concerns moot – for the present. We began a new membership drive for the association. This drive was fueled with prizes of gold coins for one new member and to the INA member recruiting the most new members during the year. John Jackson won the first year and Chris Seuntjens the second year. We did achieve about 100 new members with this effort. Dean Parr and his son updated and revised the INA web-site. Their review continues as an on-going process.
In 2012, Tom Robertson was named as our third recipient of the Outstanding Numismatist award. The INA began reviewing Life memberships. 1. As a way to understand how that works and benefits the association and 2. In conjunction with our efforts to recognize 50 year members. The association also agreed to pay the first year dues for non-sponsored young numismatists.
This year the INA agreed to pay for an insurance plan that provides Directors and Officers insurance and provides for theft and liability insurance at the INA show.
The American Numismatic Association provided the INA with recognition as a 75 year old state association (and the oldest state association of the ANA) at the “World’s Fair of Money” held in Chicago, Illinois in August 2013. The plaque to the INA from the ANA was presented to the INA in Iowa City. The Association also received a plaque from The Central States Numismatic Association recognizing our 75 year longevity. Denny Ross was presented as the fourth recipient of the Numismatist of the Year at the Iowa City banquet on October 19, 2013.
As 2013 draws toward a close, The INA has 434 members on our rolls. That is almost a three-fold increase in membership this quarter-century. That accomplishment is one to be proud of.  The challenge is to continue that growth.

  PASSING ON
These named individuals have been gleaned from the Collector. Omissions, but I hope not errors,  are possible. For those I apologize. These people were our friends, family, and colleagues. Remember them fondly.
1989: Eugene Morris.  1990:  Richard A. Wilt, W.B. Houser. 1991: Don Ostermeirer, Joe Marshek, Carl Wildfang, George Kuba, Herb Rumbaugh. 1992: Charles C. Moore. 1995: Leonard Owen, Gilbert Christensen, Paul Grover. 1996: Art Nelson. 2000: Ralph Lindquist, Claren Dale, Dorothy Marsh, Dave Dorfman,  Marcella Sheldon (wife of Charter Member). 2005: Art Kagan. 2006: Dan Jackson. 2009: Gail Mckee, John Glass, Marvin Englebart, Gary Peterson. 2010: Don Watts. 2011: Dave Vaughn, Earl Peterson. 2013: Harold Tucker, Milton Heitman, Robert Kelly, Jeffrey Judson.