Novel poly(amic esters) and their corresponding polyimides containing the 2,3,6,7-anthracenetetracarboxy boxy group were synthesized. Diester diacid chlorides were reacted with 4-aminophenyl ether in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidinone. A simplified method for the synthesis of an anti diester diacid chloride was developed. Intrinsic viscosities ranged from 1.44 to 0.20, dependent on anthracene-derived monomer content. Imidization of the poly(amic esters) takes place thermally in the range of 275-305 degrees C and was verified with IR. Thermogravimetric analysis indicates that the copolymers are more thermally stable than their pyromellitic acid-based counterparts. These materials have thermogravimetric temperatures in excess of 400 degrees C and degrade at greater than 580 degrees C. The polymers are fluorescent, but as a result of steric factors do not form an exciplex.