Stack’s Bowers Galleries has announced its 2026 Professional Numismatist Program (PNP), a fully funded, immersive educational experience set for July 25–31, 2026, in Costa Mesa, California.
For serious young numismatists, this program offers direct access to some of the most respected experts in the field. Even more compelling, the firm covers every major expense.
A 90-Year Legacy of Numismatic Leadership
For more than 90 years, Stack’s Bowers Galleries has built a global reputation for expertise across all areas of numismatics. Today, its specialists lead the hobby and the marketplace in rare coins, world issues, paper money, bullion, and auctions.
The Professional Numismatist Program reflects that legacy. Its mission is clear:
Provide practical tools and build professional connections for the next generation of young adult numismatists.
In short, this program does more than teach theory. It builds careers.
2026 Leadership: Industry Veterans at the Helm
The 2026 session will be led by Jason Carter. He will be joined by a distinguished faculty that includes: Greg Roberts, John Kraljevich, John Pack, Kyle Ponterio, and Peter Treglia.
Together, these industry leaders bring decades of real-world experience in grading, trading, research, and auction execution.
As a result, students receive instruction grounded in current market realities, not classroom abstractions.
What Participants Will Learn
Students will engage in comprehensive, hands-on instruction across the full spectrum of professional numismatics.
- Advanced Coin Grading
- Wholesale Trading and Valuation
- Bullion Trading
- Introduction to World Numismatics
- United States and World Paper Money
- The Complete Auction Process
Importantly, this instruction takes place at Griffin Studios, located within the company’s global headquarters in Costa Mesa. The setting places students at the operational center of a major auction firm.
Fully Funded – No Financial Barriers
Stack’s Bowers Galleries fully funds the Professional Numismatist Program.
The company covers:
- Travel
- Lodging
- Meals
- Beverages
- Entertainment
Therefore, accepted applicants can focus entirely on learning and networking.
Additionally, exceptional participants may receive offers for paid positions or internships immediately after completing the program.
Graduates Speak: Real Growth, Real Skills
Past participants describe measurable improvement and professional development.
One graduate shared:
“The PNP program is an incredible experience that offers meaningful insight into the professional numismatic field through leading experts and hands-on experience, from grading coins to understanding the auction process itself. Everyone involved was incredibly kind, eager to help, and shared a genuine passion for numismatics. The program’s customizable courses allow students to explore interests across the full spectrum of numismatics. I can confidently say I have grown considerably as a numismatist and developed a deeper passion for coin photography as a result. I feel very fortunate to have had this opportunity and cannot recommend it highly enough to prospective applicants.” P.N.P. graduate K.W.
Another graduate emphasized skill development:
“PNP offered a wide variety of numismatic courses. I especially enjoyed the world grading course, which also provided valuable insight into the different minting processes of coins around the globe. My grading skills for both U.S. and world coins improved significantly.” P.N.P. graduate E.P.
These testimonials underscore the program’s impact on both technical skills and long-term career focus.
Application Deadline: May 1, 2026
Applications for the 2026 Professional Numismatist Program must be submitted by May 1, 2026.
For aspiring professionals who have considered turning their hobby into a career, this program offers direct exposure to the inner workings of the rare coin industry.
Moreover, it delivers that experience at no financial cost to accepted students.








