At its November 4-6, 1998 meeting, the Accreditation Commission reviewed the self-study, supporting documentation, and the Visiting Committee's narrative report for the Museum of the American Numismatic Society in New York, New York. After discussing your museum at great length, I regret to inform you that the Commission has declined to continue the accredited status of the museum. This decision signifies that, in the Commission's opinion, the Museum of the American Numismatic Society is not currently meeting the eligibility criteria or demonstrating the characteristics of an accreditable museum. Subsequent accreditation is being denied based on the following:

1. While the Commission commends the institution's efforts at reorganization, facilitated by a MAP I evaluation, in reviewing the institution, it does not appear that the Museum of the American Numismatic Society demonstrates the "Characteristics of an Accreditable Museum" described under interpretation and presentation. The enclosed document, Museum Accreditation describes these characteristics.
2. The Commission also notes an absence of any plans addressing the institution's public dimension currently or for the institution's new site. All accreditation reviews take into account issues outlined in AAM's policy statement, Excellence and Equity: Education and the Public Dimension of Museums. A complimentary copy of this document is enclosed.
3. The Commission notes that while the institution's finances are not unstable currently, there appears to be a lack of plans in place to ensure the institution's future financial health.
4. In the documenation presented to it, the Commission did not find an institutional code of ethics addressing ethical principles for the board. The Commission requires all accredited museums to develop an institutional code of ethics applicable to staff, volunteers and the governing authority. A copy of the Commission's policy requiring an institutional code of ethics is enclosed.

The Commission acts reluctantly in withdrawing accreditation at this time. However, the Commission anticipates that its comments and those of the Visiting Committee are of a constructive nature. The Commission hopes that you find them useful in your continuing efforts to improve your museum's operations. This is important for the advancement of the museum, as well as the museum profession.

Per program policy, the Museum of the American Numismatic Society may again apply for accreditation after a minimum of one year has elapsed from the date of this letter and when the city eligibility issues have been addressed. The withdrawal is effective today, December 11, 1998. The Commission would welcome a future application from the Museum of the American Numismatic Society once it meets the program's eligibility criteria, demonstrates the characteristics of an accreditable museum, and is in a better position to undertake the rigorous accreditation review process. Please be assured that any past participation in the program will not be considered in a future application. Finally, all institutions are accorded due process and if you feel the Accreditation Commission's denial action is unwarranted, the museum may appeal the decision. Information on the appeal is enclosed.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation during the Accreditation review proces. Should you have any questions regarding the Commission's decision, please contact Kim Igoe, Director, Museum Advancement & Excellence at (202) 289-9116. Thank you.