Collections
Resources
- Collections Class Preparation Page
- Collections Workbook
- Scoutmaster Bucky's Merit Badge Advancement Quick Reference
- Scoutmaster Bucky's Acknowledgement Form
Collections Requirements Current Scouts BSA requirements
as of April 28, 2025
as of April 28, 2025
1.
Prepare a short written report or outline for your counselor, giving a
detailed description of your collection,* including a short history, why
you enjoy your collection, and what you have learned from collecting. Be
sure to include why you chose that particular type of collection/collecting
method.
* Stamp and coin collecting are excluded
from eligibility for this merit badge.
2.
Explain the growth and development of your collection.
3.
Demonstrate your knowledge of preserving and displaying your collection.
a.
Explain the precautions you need to take to preserve your collection,
including:
1.
Handling
2.
Cleaning
3.
Storage
b.
Explain how best to display your collection, keeping in mind preserving
as discussed above.
c.
Explain to your counselor the events available for a hobbyist of this
collection, including shows, seminars, conventions, contests, and
museum programs and exhibits.
d.
Explain to your counselor how you keep track of your collection.
Describe your cataloging method.
4.
Demonstrate your knowledge of collecting and investing. Discuss with your
counselor:
a.
How investing and speculation would apply to your collection
b.
What you would look for in purchasing other collections similar to
yours
c.
What you would expect in return value if you decided to sell all or
part of the collection.
5.
Do the following:
a.
Discuss with your counselor at least 10 terms commonly used to describe
your collection and be prepared to discuss the definition of each.
b.
Show your counselor any two groups from your collection. Explain how
you organized your collection and why you chose that method. (Note: if
your collection is too large to transport and your counselor is unable
to view your collection directly, photographs should be available to
share.)
c.
Explain the monetary value of your collection and where you learned
about those values.
d.
Explain how your collection is graded for value, physical defects,
size, and age. Show the various classifications or ratings used in your
collection.
e.
List the national, state, or local association(s) related to or
associated with your collection.
f.
Explain to your counselor the purpose of and reason for the
identification number (if applicable), series, brand name (if any), and
any other special identification marks.
6.
Discuss with your counselor the plans you have to continue with the
collection in the future.
7.
Find out about career opportunities in collecting. Pick one and find out
the education, training, and experience required for this profession.
Discuss this with your counselor, and explain why this profession might
interest you.
