A novel sonication method has been successfully developed for the preparation of anthracene nanoparticles. The as-prepared nanoparticles are characterized using transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence excitation and emission spectroscopy. Nanoparticles prepared with sonication are smaller and better dispersed than with magnetic stirring. Surfactants cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, bis(2-ethylhexyl)sodium sulfosuccinate, sodium dodecyl sulfonate and polyvinylpyrrolidone are used to control the size and morphology. Excimer band is found at 445 and 472nm and possible mechanism is discussed.