The March 26–28, Whitman Coin & Collectibles Baltimore Expo is celebrating its 37th year as one of the nation’s premier coin and currency shows. The show’s free admission, along with its free meetings and educational forums, attract thousands of visitors every year.

“Come meet Mr. Lincoln!” said general manager David Crenshaw. “This year is the 100th anniversary of the Lincoln cent and the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. To celebrate these important occasions, Dennis Boggs will present an enlightening, informative, and educational look at the life of the 16th president as it might have been told by Abraham Lincoln himself. Visitors are invited to have a free souvenir photo taken with Mr. Lincoln.”

This year the National Federation of the Blind has partnered with the Expo to promote the “Braille Readers are Leaders” campaign, which will raise $8 million for Braille literacy programs. The initiative is based on sales of the Louis Braille commemorative silver dollar issued by the U.S. Mint, plus matching fundraising. Visitors who support this campaign with the purchase of the Louis Braille commemorative silver dollar will help change the lives of the blind across the country.

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing will proudly showcase its Billion Dollar Exhibit, which features more than a billion dollars in rare and antique currency—including sheets of $100,000 currency notes, Treasury Bonds, and Gold and Silver certificates. Additionally, the BEP will display an antique, 19th-century spider press. A technical expert on currency production will conduct printing demonstrations on the press and answer questions. There will also be live demonstrations by members of the BEP’s Office of Engraving and the Mutilated Currency Examination and Redemption staffs.

Whitman publisher Dennis Tucker, featured speaker at the Expo, will present Abraham Lincoln: The Image of His Greatness at 11 a.m. on Saturday, March 28. Tucker explores the popular depiction of Lincoln as “ideal, idol, and icon.”

A major auction of rare coins and paper money by Bowers and Merena Auctions kicks off the show. Highlights include a notable collection of scarce and rare coins.

“Hundreds of dealers travel to the show from around the country,” said Crenshaw. “They are happy to look at coins and paper money and offer value appraisals. If you have an old coin or two tucked away in a box, come in and ask questions in a safe and friendly environment. Who knows, you might have a valuable rarity without even knowing it!”

Coins and currency are not just for grownups. Young collectors are welcome at the Expo. “Kid’s Korner” activities start at 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Every youngster aged 6 to 14 who attends will go home with free coins and prizes. The show hours are 2 p.m.–6 p.m. Thursday and 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Baltimore Convention Center.