The United States Mint has a new director with deep roots in the hobby, as longtime numismatist and coin professional Paul Hollis has been confirmed as the 41st director of the U.S. Mint.
Hollis, a collector and professional numismatist for more than three decades, was sworn into office on Jan. 6 following his confirmation by the U.S. Senate on Dec. 18. He was nominated for the role by U.S. President Donald Trump last July.
“As a lifelong collector, I am privileged to serve as the leader of the world’s largest mint,” Hollis said following his confirmation. “I’m eager to meet the incredible team behind the design, production and sales of circulating, numismatic and bullion coins and medals.”
Before assuming leadership of the Mint, Hollis built a long career bridging numismatics and public service. He has spent more than 30 years as a professional numismatist and is a 25-year Life Member of the American Numismatic Association, a congressionally chartered organization. He has also served on several industry boards, including the Industry Council for Tangible Assets and the Numismatic Literary Guild.
In addition to his numismatic background, Hollis has extensive experience in government. From 2012 to 2024, he served as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives. More recently, he was elected to the Louisiana State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, representing a constituency of about 500,000 people.
Hollis is a native of Louisiana and earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science from Louisiana State University in 1994. He and his wife, Ashley, have been married for 23 years and have two children.
The United States Mint, founded in 1792, operates as part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury and is responsible for producing circulating coinage for the United States. It also manufactures numismatic products, including proof, uncirculated and commemorative coins, as well as bullion coins, Congressional Gold Medals and other medals. The Mint’s numismatic programs are self-sustaining and do not rely on taxpayer funding.
Hollis assumes the role at a time of heightened interest in bullion markets and ongoing demand for numismatic products, with collectors and dealers watching closely to see how his background as a hobbyist and industry professional may shape the Mint’s future direction.