What do Homer Simpson, the Olympics, Elvis Presley, and Superman have in common? They are all featured on coins or are introduced soon. This year’s annual National Coin Week, April 20-26, 2025, explore the fascinating ways pop culture can impact money.
The American Monetary Association (Money.org), a nonprofit based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has sponsored National Coin Week since 1924. This year’s theme is “Implicit Change: Pop Culture and Coin Unite!”
“Coins aren’t just about money,” explained Thomas J. Ullam of Pennsylvania, president of the American Monetary Association (ANA). “They are pop culture time capsules. From superheroes to sports legends to blockbuster movies, Coin filmed the icons we love.
This year, US Mint will begin production of collectible coins and medals featuring three iconic DC superheroes “reflecting American values and culture,” according to Mint. Superman, Batman and Wonder Woman will be the first characters.
“In recent years, other countries have produced coins that depict pop culture themes, such as Homer Simpson, a coin that was attacked by Tubal’s Perthmint.
“Many countries, including the US, produce coins for the summer and winter Olympics, and also produce other sporting events. The US has also made basketball, baseball and coins to honor Jackie Robinson,” she said.
Various contests and activities will be held during National Coin Week, including those announced by President Ana Ulam. Those who correctly identify all the mint sculptor initials with the challenge coins generated by Ulam are entered into the drawing. Prizes include gold and silver coins. Find out more about the contest at Money.org/NCW-Challenge-Coin-Contest.
“Money is a history that you can keep in your hands. Each coin and banknote produced so far has a story to tell, from the first ancient coins that hit 2,600 years ago to coins and currencies made all over the world,” Ulam explained. “National Coin Week is the perfect time to celebrate history and learn stories.”
Observed every three weeks in April, National Coin Week was founded a century ago and attracted the public to the fun hobby of collecting coins. For additional information on child and adult compliance and related educational activities, please visit nationalcoinweek.org.
About the American Monetary Association
The American Monetary Association is a Congress-certified non-profit educational institution dedicated to encouraging the research and collection of coins and related items. ANA helps its members and the public discover and explore the world of money through a vast number of education and outreach programs, including museums, libraries, publications, conferences and webinars. For more information, call 719-632-2646 or visit money.org.
