From the Editor

Hello everyone,

Finally, we are once again putting the winter behind us. For a change, I opted to showcase an upcoming coin emerging from the ice thaw as a thematic tie-in for the cover. Later in this issue, you will see some space filler art with a spring-like theme to it and, as there weren’t many comments on a previous feature I did on AI-generated designs, I banished that concept to only one space filler where I tried to figure out what other unifying figures, if any, apart from the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., should go on a coin. Here’s hoping people agree with my artistic choice.

As far as writing goes, we have a rundown on the coins being released for America’s 250th anniversary of independence by Bruce Benoit, work from Tom Casper on a notable Wisconsinite, and more small coinage exploration from Mark Benvenuto. Our fearless leader, Thad, also has a message, highlights from U.S. Mint releases make their return, and to close things out, a glimpse into our recently written past.

Times gone by are certainly something I have found myself looking at moreso than even usual in this last quarter. Due to having to get a new job, I find myself thinking about those that I have done before and enjoyed, and, after having reorganized my collection space in my home, where I wrote this at my desk, I find I haven’t had that high of completing a difficult album in a while. Indeed, I obtained just about all of my dream items after a spectacular run of good fortune, and though I am thankful for them, I feel a bit stuck. My wife even warned me not to rush the thing.

Clearly, she was right. Does anyone have any thoughts on how to avoid nostalgia?

If not, be well, and, as always, happy collecting!

Evan J. Pretzer
February 28, 2026.

The image is a picture of the front of the Enduring Liberty Half-Dollar set to be available in celebration of the 250th anniversary of America’s independence. A one-year-only, copper-nickel clad coin, it was designed by Donna Weaver and Beth Zaiken and is the first time in over 70 years (perhaps overdue, but that is a matter of opinion) that a depiction of Liberty has graced the circulating half-dollar. After, designs depicting the Paralympics will be released and then, in 2030, President John F. Kennedy is set to return, though this editor wishes he would be retired.

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Welcome to the Numismatists of Wisconsin!

BRIEF HISTORY

N.O.W. was established in 1960 by a small group of Wisconsin collectors including facilitator Chet Krause. Their objective was simple; to encourage and promote interest in numismatics, to cultivate friendly relations between Wisconsin collectors and local coin clubs, and to educate and assist new hobbyists.

It was decided to formally organize N.O.W. that summer at an open house in Iola at the offices of Krause Publications. On July 8th, 1960 a large crowd attended, nominations of officers were set forth and elections were made. By day’s end, N.O.W. had been formally established and the membership roll had reached nearly 100. As Chet put it, “From that day on, collectors of the state had one more element of common ground to talk about, for the idea of a state organization had come to reality.”

And, as they say, the rest is history... N.O.W. has not changed its objectives and is still going strong some 60+ years later.

ORGANIZATION

The N.O.W. board of governors meets three times yearly to discuss organizational issues for the betterment of the club. These meetings are held at predetermined sites throughout the year, usually in conjunction with one of the many state local coin shows. One of these shows is designated as the annual N.O.W. show, which is co-sponsored by a host club and N.O.W. The yearly general membership meeting is held at this show.

NOW NEWS

What started out as the organization’s excellent newsletter, has become an award-winning quarterly club journal/magazine. Recognized by the American Numismatic Association as an Outstanding Club Publication, NOW NEWS aims to continue the long-established tradition of publishing original articles written by N.O.W. members, as well as interesting items from outside sources around the world of numismatics.

WEBSITE

Our website is designed so visitors can get a feel for the organization. Here you can see some photos, learn about local shows, read a select few of our award-winning articles, and of course, join N.O.W.

So, after checking out this site, I urge you to join our state club, get involved, and start enjoying all the perks of membership asap!