Michael Fuljenz Receives Prestigious Numismatic Awards for Exemplary Service
Sunday, August 6, 2023
Section: Association


by Donn Pearlman & Associates
Mike Fuljenz, the 2023 Chester L. Krause Distinguished Service Award recipient.



The National Coin and Bullion Association (NCBA) is delighted to announce that esteemed member Michael Fuljenz, president of Universal Coin & Bullion, will be honored with the highest distinction awarded by the American Numismatic Association (ANA), the Chester L. Krause Distinguished Service Award, at the 2023 World’s Fair of Money in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on August 11. The ANA is the largest organization of coin collecting enthusiasts in the United States, and the Chester L. Krause Distinguished Service Award is a highly prestigious honor given in recognition of an individual’s numerous years of outstanding, dedicated service to numismatics. The ANA will also recognize Fuljenz with its 2023 Philanthropy Award, highlighting his commitment to charitable endeavors.

Michael Fuljenz has an impressive legacy within the numismatic community. As a founding member of the Industry Council for Tangible Assets (now operating under the trade name NCBA) in 1983, he has long been a steadfast advocate for the hobby. Fuljenz’s dedication and commitment have been exemplified through his service on both the NCBA board of directors and executive board.

Fuljenz’s passion for numismatics and precious metals has earned him the moniker “America’s Gold Expert.” Throughout his illustrious career, Fuljenz has garnered numerous accolades for his contributions to the field of numismatics. The Press Club of Southeast Texas and the Numismatic Literary Guild have honored him with awards for his outstanding books, weekly newsletters, and appearances on television and radio programs. Notably, his work in consumer protection—trying to combat counterfeits in the marketplace—has earned him recognition from NCBA and the Professional Numismatists Guild. Authorities such as the Federal Trade Commission, the Attorney General of Texas, and the Better Business Bureau have sought his expertise and support in consumer alerts.

Under Fuljenz’s leadership, Universal Coin & Bullion has received recognition as the Business of the Month by the Greater Beaumont (Texas) Chamber of Commerce, further highlighting his commitment to excellence in numismatics and business.

His generosity extends beyond the numismatic world. Fuljenz has demonstrated his dedication to making a positive impact in the community at large as he actively engages in various community, education, and youth sports groups in his hometown of Beaumont, in addition to serving on the board of directors of the local Crime Stoppers organization.

Fuljenz’s achievements in literature, business, and civic endeavors were recognized by McNeese State University, which awarded him an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 2015. Lamar University, too, acknowledged his significant impact on the community by presenting him with a 3T (Time, Talent, and Treasure) Award in 2007.

Michael Fuljenz’s exceptional service and unwavering commitment to the hobby of coin collecting have earned him the highest praise from the numismatic community, which eagerly anticipates the upcoming award ceremony at the World’s Fair of Money. The August 2023 issue of The Numismatist, ANA’s monthly magazine, will feature a cover photo and a detailed story about Fuljenz’s remarkable achievements and unwavering dedication to the numismatic world. His tireless efforts to promote the Golden Rule, support educational programs, and combat numismatic crime have made a lasting impact on numismatics and inspired countless individuals. NCBA congratulates Michael Fuljenz on this well-deserved recognition and expresses gratitude for his outstanding contributions.