Barbara J. Gregory, the longest-serving and only woman editor-in-chief of The Numismatist, is this year’s recipient of the Elvira Clain-Stefanelli Memorial Award for Achievement in Numismatics. The award is presented annually to a woman who has made significant contributions to numismatics through her research, leadership, and/or mentorship, and who has demonstrated a long-time commitment to the betterment of numismatics.
Gregory began her journey in numismatic publishing at the American Numismatic Association (ANA) in 1981 as an editorial assistant, and by 1988 she had become editor-in-chief, a position she held until 2020. During her time with the ANA, Gregory instituted many integral changes, such as initiating payment for contributing authors and columnists; being the first hobby editor to implement desktop publishing; and revamping the YN Literary Awards program, to name a few.
“I am humbled and honored to receive this great honor,” says Gregory. “I take mentorship seriously, and the majority of my numismatic support has been in the form of encouraging new writers. I am so very pleased when collectors, especially women, tell me that I have inspired them to succeed in the hobby and in numismatic writing. I consider that my legacy.” Currently, Gregory edits the Central States Numismatic Society’s quarterly publication, The Centinel. She lays out the magazine, and writes or otherwise selects all non-bylined content. Gregory will receive her award during the ANA’s 132nd Anniversary Banquet taking place Friday, Aug.11.