The fourth and fifth days of sales of the new proof gold Kennedy half dollar have been cancelled at the American Numismatic Association World’s Fair of Money in Rosemont, Ill.

Walter Ostromecki, ANA president, cited safety concerns and the Mint’s earlier decision to cancel further over-the-counter sales at its locations at the Denver and Philadelphia Mints and Mint headquarters in Washington, D.C.

The decision to end sales was made by vote of the ANA board of governors in a special meeting and in consultation with the U.S. Mint.

For three days of sales, Aug. 5-7, the ANA has taxed its staff to keep the crowds under control as they lined up the night before each day of sales of gold Kennedy half dollars.

With 40 percent less supply at ANA, the value of gold Kennedy halves sold at the convention should be reinforced.

The U.S. Mint sold 500 coins each day. The total available supply is 1,500 rather than the 2,500 planned.

The gold Kennedy offer has given the ANA and coin collecting generally the most positive attention it has had in many years. The ramifications of this premature end of sales have yet to play out.