Ferguson award winner Bernard lauded for sharing hobby with younger generations

Claude Bernard, a dedicated and influential figure in Canadian numismatics, has been awarded the prestigious J. Douglas Ferguson Award for 2024.

This accolade, bestowed by the J. Douglas Foundation Award Committee, recognizes Bernard’s exceptional contributions and enduring commitment to the study and promotion of Canadian numismatics. The honour was presented on July 13 during the awards banquet of the Royal Canadian Numismatic Association’s convention in Boucherville, Que.

According to a citation read by Ron Greene, chair of the awards committee, Bernard’s journey into numismatics began in his teenage years, driven by an innate curiosity and passion for coins. His early interest led him to form a numismatic club at his school, where he shared his knowledge with fellow students. In the 1980s, Bernard’s engagement with the Société Numismatique de Québec (SNQ) marked a significant chapter in his career. He served in various capacities, including director, editor, and eventually president of the society.

During his tenure with the SNQ, Bernard founded Les Jeunes Mordus de la Monnaie, a group dedicated to nurturing young enthusiasts in the field of numismatics. He led this initiative for nearly a decade, also editing its publication. When the SNQ decided to discontinue the activities of Les Jeunes Mordus de la Monnaie, Bernard responded by founding Les Apprentis Numismates. The initiative introduced a novel approach to engage young people in Quebec, New Brunswick and Ontario. He encouraged students to write stories inspired by the Canadian coat of arms, fostering a deeper awareness of the history and knowledge embedded in coins, medals, tokens and banknotes.

Greene said Bernard’s efforts have produced a new generation of educated young numismatists and significantly contributed to the growth and development of the numismatic community. His involvement extends to the foundation of a few numismatic clubs, where he remains an active participant at both local and national levels.

The J. Douglas Ferguson Award, the highest distinction in Canadian numismatics, celebrates Bernard’s remarkable achievements and his unwavering dedication to numismatics.

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