Coin Collecting Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Easy, Moderate
Setting: Indoor
Best For: Scouts interested in history, collecting, detail work
Hands-On Level: Low, Moderate
Eagle Required: No

The Coin Collecting merit badge helps you learn how coins are made, used, and collected. You will study coin designs, dates, markings, and condition. You will also learn how coins can connect you to people, places, and events from the past.

As you work on this badge, you will practice looking closely and keeping clear records. You will sort coins, identify different types, and learn how collectors protect their collections. These steps help you build patience, organization, and attention to detail.

You may discover a hobby that you can enjoy for many years. Coin collecting can begin with coins you already have at home. The Coin Collecting merit badge gives you a good starting point and helps you understand what makes each coin worth studying.

The requirements for the Coin Collecting merit badge were updated on January 1, 2026.

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Requirements

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Pamphlet

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Printable Requirement Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Coin Collecting Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Coin Collecting merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Mints
• Requirement 2: Terms
• Requirement 3: Collections
• Requirement 4: Designs
• Requirement 5: Reverse Designs
• Requirement 6: Portraits
• Requirement 7: Experience
• More Resources

Requirement 1: U.S. Mints

What You Need To Do

Describe how U.S. coins are made. Name the four active U.S. Mint facilities and their locations.

Helpful Tips

• A mint is a facility where coins are made.
• The four active U.S. Mint facilities are in Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point.
• Coin designs include images, words, dates, and numbers.
• Flat metal pieces called planchets are used to make coins.
• A coin press stamps the design onto each planchet.
• Finished coins are checked for errors and damage.
• Philadelphia and Denver produce many coins used in daily life.
• San Francisco produces many proof coins for collectors.
• West Point produces bullion coins and other special coins.
• Mint marks can show where a coin was made.
• Common mint marks are P, D, S, and W.
• Some coins made in Philadelphia do not have a mint mark.

Resources

• How Coins Are Made—Inside U.S. Coin Factory (video)
• US Mint Locations in the US (website)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts several coins with different mint marks.
• Use pictures or a video to show the minting process.
• Ask Scouts to place the four mint locations on a map.
• Let Scouts compare regular coins, proof coins, and bullion coins when examples are available.

Requirement 2: Coin Terms

What You Need To Do

Define six common coin collecting terms. Use each term correctly when describing coins and collections.

Helpful Tips

• Obverse means the front side of a coin.
• The obverse often shows a person, symbol, or main design.
• Reverse means the back side of a coin.
• The reverse often shows a second design, building, animal, or event.
• Reeding means the small grooves around the edge of some coins.
• Dimes, quarters, and half dollars often have reeded edges.
• Clad means a coin is made from layers of different metals.
• Many modern U.S. dimes, quarters, and half dollars are clad coins.
• A type set includes one coin from each design or coin type.
• A date set includes coins of the same type from different years.
• A penny collection with several designs can form a type set.
• A nickel collection with one coin from each year can form a date set.

Resources

• Coin Term Glossary (website)
• Coin Collecting for Beginners; Coin Terminology and Coin Anatomy (video)

Leader Tips

• Give Scouts several coins to examine during the discussion.
• Ask them to identify the obverse, reverse, and edge.
• Show examples of both reeded and smooth edges.
• Let Scouts sort sample coins into a type set and a date set.

Requirement 3: Storing a Coin Collection

What You Need To Do

Describe three ways to store coins. Include the benefits, drawbacks, and cost of each method.

Helpful Tips

• Coin folders are low-cost cardboard books with labeled spaces for coins.
• Folders make it easy to organize coins by date or type.
• Folders give limited protection from air, moisture, and dirt.
• Coin albums use pages and clear covers to protect and display coins.
• Albums give better protection than folders but usually cost more.
• 2×2 holders are small cardboard or plastic holders with clear windows.
• These holders are low-cost and fit in boxes or binder pages.
• 2×2 holders take more time to label and organize.
• Coin tubes hold stacks of coins of the same size.
• Tubes save space but do not display each coin.
• Hard plastic cases give strong protection for valuable coins.
• Hard cases cost more and are often used for single coins.
• Choose storage made without PVC, since PVC can damage coins over time.
• Keep stored coins in a cool, dry place.

Resources

• Coin Storage Tips | How and Where to Keep Your Collection Safe (video)

Leader Tips

• Show Scouts at least three storage methods.
• Let Scouts compare the price and level of protection.
• Use common coins for a hands-on storage activity.
• Remind Scouts to hold coins by the edges.

Requirement 4: Collecting Coin Designs

What You Need To Do

Collect the coins listed in Requirements 4a through 4f. For each coin, identify the design features, designer, designer initials, and where the initials appear.

Helpful Tips

• Check each coin’s date before adding it to your collection.
• Keep a checklist for every required coin.
• Use coin rolls, pocket change, banks, coin shops, and family collections as sources.
• Ask permission before taking coins from another person’s collection.
• Hold coins by the edges to avoid fingerprints.
• Do not clean the coins because cleaning can damage them.
• Store each coin in a safe holder or labeled space.
• Write the date, mint mark, denomination, and design group for each coin.
• Use a magnifying glass to find small designer initials.
• Compare the obverse, reverse, and edge of each coin.
• Use a current coin guide or U.S. Mint reference for designer details.
• Some coins may cost more than face value, especially older or harder-to-find dates.
• Common circulated examples are usually enough unless the counselor asks for something different.
• Bring the full collection and notes when meeting with the counselor.

Resources

• Coin Collecting 101 for Beginners: What You Need to Know to Start Coin Collecting (video)

Leader Tips

• Give Scouts a checklist with all required date groups.
• Help them find low-cost circulated examples.
• Provide magnifiers and reliable coin references.
• Check the dates and design groups before the counselor meeting.

Requirement 4a: One-Cent Coins

What You Need To Do

Collect one cent dated from 1959 through 2008 and one cent dated 2010 or later. Describe the designs, designers, initials, and locations of the initials. Include the reason for the four special designs used in 2009.

Helpful Tips

• The obverse of each coin shows Abraham Lincoln.
• Victor David Brenner designed the Lincoln portrait.
• His initials, VDB, appear near Lincoln’s shoulder.
• Cents from 1959 through 2008 show the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse.
• Frank Gasparro designed the Lincoln Memorial reverse.
• His initials, FG, appear near the lower right side of the Memorial.
• Cents from 2010 and later show a Union shield on the reverse.
• Lyndall Bass designed the shield reverse.
• Her initials, LB, appear near the lower left side of the shield.
• Joseph Menna sculpted the shield design.
• His initials, JFM, appear near the lower right side.
• Four reverse designs appeared in 2009.
• The designs marked the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth.
• They also marked 100 years since Lincoln first appeared on the cent.
• The four designs show Lincoln’s birth, early work, professional life, and presidency.

Leader Tips

• Provide coins from both required date groups.
• Use clear images of all four 2009 designs.
• Help Scouts find initials with a magnifying glass.
• Let each Scout describe the differences in their own words.

Requirement 4b: Five-Cent Coins

What You Need To Do

Collect one nickel dated from 1959 through 2003 and one dated 2006 or later. Describe the designs, designers, initials, and locations of the initials. Include the purpose of the special 2004 and 2005 nickels.

Helpful Tips

• Nickels from 1959 through 2003 show Thomas Jefferson on the obverse.
• Felix Schlag designed the Jefferson portrait and Monticello reverse.
• His initials, FS, appear below Jefferson’s shoulder on many later coins.
• Monticello appears on the reverse of these coins.
• Nickels from 2006 and later show a forward-facing Jefferson portrait.
• Jamie Franki designed the newer portrait.
• His initials, JF, appear near Jefferson’s shoulder.
• Donna Weaver sculpted the portrait.
• Her initials, DW, also appear near the portrait.
• Monticello returned to the reverse in 2006.
• The 2004 and 2005 coins belong to the Westward Journey Nickel Series.
• The series marked the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• The 2004 reverses show a peace medal and a keelboat.
• The 2005 reverses show a bison and an ocean view.
• A new Jefferson portrait also appeared in 2005.

Leader Tips

• Show examples from before, during, and after the special series.
• Place the coins in date order.
• Help Scouts compare the Jefferson portraits.
• Use a map of the Lewis and Clark route for added context.

Requirement 4c: Ten-Cent Coin

What You Need To Do

Collect one dime dated 1965 or later. Describe its design, designer, initials, and the location of the initials.

Helpful Tips

• The dime shows Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse.
• John R. Sinnock designed the Roosevelt dime.
• His initials, JS, appear near the base of Roosevelt’s neck.
• The reverse shows a torch in the center.
• An olive branch appears on the left side.
• An oak branch appears on the right side.
• The torch represents liberty.
• The olive branch represents peace.
• The oak branch represents strength.
• Dimes dated 1965 or later are clad coins.
• The coin has a copper core with copper-nickel outer layers.
• A copper-colored stripe can often be seen along the edge.
• The edge has reeding.

Leader Tips

• Provide a magnifying glass for finding the initials.
• Compare the edge with an older silver dime when available.
• Ask Scouts to identify each reverse symbol.
• Keep valuable coins in protective holders.

Requirement 4d: Twenty-Five-Cent Coins

What You Need To Do

Collect one quarter dated from 1965 through 1998. Also collect two State or territory quarters, two America the Beautiful quarters, and two American Women quarters. Describe the designs, designers, initials, and purpose of each program.

Helpful Tips

• Quarters from 1965 through 1998 show George Washington on the obverse.
• John Flanagan designed the Washington portrait.
• His initials, JF, appear near the base of Washington’s neck.
• An eagle appears on the reverse of these earlier quarters.
• The 50 State Quarters Program ran from 1999 through 2008.
• District of Columbia and U.S. territory quarters followed in 2009.
• Each reverse shows a place, symbol, event, or person linked to a state or territory.
• The program presented the states in the order they joined the Union.
• America the Beautiful quarters were issued from 2010 through 2021.
• Their reverses show national parks and other important sites.
• The program honored natural, historic, and cultural places.
• American Women quarters were issued during the requirement’s 2022 through 2024 date group.
• Their reverses honor women who made major contributions to the United States.
• Designer initials appear in different places on each reverse.
• Use the U.S. Mint coin page or a coin guide to identify each designer and set of initials.

Resources

• Collecting State Quarters (video)
• America the Beautiful Quarters® Program (video)
• American Women Quarters® Program (video)

Leader Tips

• Let Scouts choose designs connected to places or people they enjoy.
• Provide a reference guide for designer names and initials.
• Ask Scouts to group the coins by program.
• Check every coin against the date ranges in the requirement.

Requirement 4e: Half Dollar

What You Need To Do

Collect one half dollar dated 1965 or later. Describe its design, designer, initials, and the location of the initials.

Helpful Tips

• The obverse shows President John F. Kennedy.
• Gilroy Roberts designed the Kennedy portrait.
• His initials appear near the base of Kennedy’s neck.
• The reverse shows the Presidential Seal.
• Frank Gasparro designed the reverse.
• His initials, FG, appear near the eagle’s tail.
• The eagle holds an olive branch and arrows.
• The olive branch represents peace.
• The arrows represent military strength.
• Half dollars dated from 1965 through 1970 contain 40 percent silver.
• Most half dollars dated after 1970 are copper-nickel clad.
• The 1976 Bicentennial half dollar shows Independence Hall on the reverse.
• The date on the Bicentennial coin reads 1776–1976.
• The edge of a regular half dollar has reeding.

Leader Tips

• Provide a regular Kennedy half dollar and a Bicentennial example.
• Help Scouts locate both sets of initials.
• Compare the edges of silver-clad and copper-nickel coins.
• Handle collector coins by their edges.

Requirement 4f: Dollar Coins

What You Need To Do

Collect one Susan B. Anthony dollar, one Sacagawea dollar, and one Presidential dollar from the date groups listed in the requirement. Describe the designs, designers, initials, and locations of the initials.

Helpful Tips

• Susan B. Anthony dollars were issued from 1979 through 1981 and again in 1999.
• Frank Gasparro designed both sides of the coin.
• His initials, FG, appear near Anthony’s shoulder and on the reverse.
• The obverse shows Susan B. Anthony.
• The reverse shows an eagle landing on the moon.
• Sacagawea dollars from 2000 through 2008 show Sacagawea and her child.
• Glenna Goodacre designed the obverse.
• Her initials appear near the lower part of Sacagawea’s clothing.
• Thomas D. Rogers Sr. designed the eagle reverse.
• His initials appear near the eagle.
• Sacagawea dollars have a golden color but do not contain gold.
• Presidential dollars were issued from 2007 through 2016 and again in 2020.
• Each obverse shows a U.S. president.
• The reverse shows the Statue of Liberty.
• Don Everhart designed the common reverse.
• His initials appear near the lower part of the Statue of Liberty.
• Lettering on many Presidential dollars appears on the edge.
• Use a coin guide to identify the designer and initials for each presidential portrait.

Resources

• Susan B. Anthony Coins (website)
• Sacagawea Coins (website)
• Presidential Dollar Coins (website)

Leader Tips

• Provide one example from each required design group.
• Compare each coin’s size, color, edge, and portrait.
• Help Scouts use a coin guide to find designer information.
• Remind Scouts to check the dates before selecting coins.

Requirement 5: Bicentennial Reverse Designs

What You Need To Do

Describe the special reverse designs used on the quarter, half dollar, and dollar coin for the U.S. Bicentennial. Discuss the symbols and meaning of each design with your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• The Bicentennial marked 200 years since the Declaration of Independence.
• These coins carry the dual date 1776–1976.
• No U.S. quarters, half dollars, or dollars carry a 1975 date.
• The quarter reverse shows a colonial drummer.
• A torch and 13 stars appear beside the drummer.
• The 13 stars represent the original colonies.
• Jack L. Ahr designed the quarter reverse.
• His initials, JLA, appear below the drummer’s left arm.
• The half dollar reverse shows Independence Hall in Philadelphia.
• Independence Hall is linked to the Declaration of Independence.
• Seth G. Huntington designed the half dollar reverse.
• His initials, SGH, appear near the lower right side of the building.
• The dollar reverse shows the Liberty Bell over the moon.
• The Liberty Bell represents American freedom.
• The moon represents American space exploration.
• Dennis R. Williams designed the dollar reverse.
• His initials, DRW, appear below the Liberty Bell.
• Regular circulation coins were made with copper-nickel clad metal.
• Special collector versions were made with 40 percent silver.

Resources

• Bicentennial Coins & Medals (website)

Leader Tips

• Provide examples or clear images of all three coins.
• Ask Scouts to match each symbol with its meaning.
• Help Scouts locate the designer initials with a magnifying glass.
• Compare the special reverses with the regular coin designs.

Requirement 6: Currency Portraits

What You Need To Do

Name the person shown on each current U.S. note from $1 through $100. Give the locations where U.S. paper currency is printed.

Helpful Tips

• George Washington appears on the $1 note.
• Thomas Jefferson appears on the $2 note.
• Abraham Lincoln appears on the $5 note.
• Alexander Hamilton appears on the $10 note.
• Andrew Jackson appears on the $20 note.
• Ulysses S. Grant appears on the $50 note.
• Benjamin Franklin appears on the $100 note.
• Hamilton and Franklin were never U.S. presidents.
• The Bureau of Engraving and Printing produces U.S. paper currency.
• One printing facility is in Washington, D.C.
• The other printing facility is in Fort Worth, Texas.
• The Federal Reserve distributes currency after it is printed.
• The U.S. Mint makes coins but does not print paper currency.
• Security features include watermarks, security threads, and color-changing ink.
• Note designs and security features vary by denomination.

Resources

• How Money is Made (video)
• Do You Know Who Is on Every US Banknote? (video)

Leader Tips

• Provide examples or clear pictures of each denomination.
• Mix the notes and let Scouts match each portrait to its value.
• Use a map to locate Washington, D.C., and Fort Worth.
• Point out the difference between the U.S. Mint and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing.

Requirement 7a: World Coins

What You Need To Do

Collect 20 different coins from at least seven countries. Identify the country, denomination, and main design features of each coin.

Helpful Tips

• Check both sides of each coin for the country name.
• The country name may appear in another language.
• Use a world coin guide when the name is hard to read.
• Record the denomination shown on the coin.
• Look for portraits, animals, plants, buildings, maps, and national symbols.
• Write a short description of the main design.
• Record the date and mint mark when they are visible.
• Ask family members for coins left from trips.
• Coin shops often sell low-cost mixed world coin groups.
• Keep each coin with a label or numbered record.
• Include coins from at least seven different countries.
• Check the full group before meeting with your counselor.

Leader Tips

• Provide a world coin guide or trusted reference site.
• Help Scouts identify unfamiliar languages and symbols.
• Encourage clear records for all 20 coins.
• Check the country count before the counselor meeting.

Requirement 7b: World Paper Money

What You Need To Do

Collect 20 different paper notes from at least seven countries. Identify the country, denomination, and main design features of each note.

Helpful Tips

• Look for the country or issuing bank name.
• Country names may appear in a local language.
• Record the denomination and currency name.
• Look for portraits, buildings, animals, plants, and landmarks.
• Note major colors and large symbols.
• Watermarks and security threads may be visible when held to light.
• Do not fold or write on the notes.
• Store notes in sleeves made for paper money.
• Ask travelers about leftover foreign currency.
• Low-value notes are often easier and cheaper to collect.
• Number each note and match it to a written record.
• Include notes from at least seven countries.

Leader Tips

• Use sample notes or clear images during the activity.
• Help Scouts handle notes without causing damage.
• Provide references for unfamiliar writing and currency names.
• Check all 20 records for complete details.

Requirement 7c: Tokens And Medals

What You Need To Do

Collect 20 different tokens, medals, or a mix of both. Identify who issued each item and what it was used for.

Helpful Tips

• Tokens are issued for a special use instead of regular money.
• Common examples include transit, arcade, parking, and trade tokens.
• Medals often mark an event, service, award, or anniversary.
• Look for a business, club, city, event, or group name.
• Record the issuer for each item.
• Record the purpose or use of each item.
• Check both sides and the edge for words or symbols.
• Dates and locations can help identify an item.
• Use token and medal guides for items with little text.
• Store each item in a labeled holder.
• Number each item and match it to a written record.
• Avoid cleaning old tokens or medals.

Resources

• Exonumia (Tokens and Medals) (website)

Leader Tips

• Show examples of both tokens and medals.
• Help Scouts separate issuers from uses.
• Provide references for hard-to-identify items.
• Check all 20 entries before the counselor meeting.

Requirement 7d: Coin Collecting Experience

What You Need To Do

Attend one approved coin-related event, tour, meeting, museum, or virtual exhibit. Report what you saw, did, and experienced to your counselor.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a coin show, coin club meeting, Mint tour, museum, or approved virtual exhibit.
• Get counselor approval before using a virtual exhibit.
• Get parent or guardian permission before going online.
• Record the date, place, and name of the activity.
• Take notes during or soon after the visit.
• List several coins, displays, or topics you found useful.
• Record any questions you asked.
• Write down answers or facts shared by collectors or guides.
• At a coin show, compare displays and dealer tables.
• At a club meeting, pay attention to talks, trading, and member activities.
• At a Mint or museum, focus on coin production and history.
• For a virtual exhibit, save the exhibit title and website name.
• Prepare a short report before meeting with your counselor.

Resources

• National and Regional Coin Shows for Collectors (website)
• Local Coin Club Directory (website)
• US Mint Locations in the US (website)
• Virtual Tours (website)
• History of Money Exhibit (website)
• Medal in America Exhibit (website)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts find safe and approved local or online options.
• Review the activity choice before the Scout attends.
• Encourage note-taking without turning the visit into a test.
• Ask open questions about what stood out during the experience.

Tips for Starting a Collection

Starting a collection can be fun and educational. Collecting helps you practice math and science skills like sorting, organizing, and categorizing. The Coin Collecting merit badge is one way to learn about coins while building a collection. To get started, pick something that interests you and is easy to add to over time, like coins, stamps, or trading cards. Avoid expensive or hard-to-find items and make sure you have a good place to store your collection.

Your collection can reflect your unique interests. For example, you could collect coins, photos, or themed items like sports memorabilia. The Coin Collecting merit badge teaches Scouts how to display and care for their collections, so they last for years. A nice display with labels and information makes your collection interesting to others. Keep adding to it and look for ways to connect with other collectors to grow your hobby.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Coin Collecting merit badge gives Scouts a simple way to explore history through everyday objects. It fits well within the full merit badge program because it adds a quiet, detail-focused hobby to a list that includes science, trades, arts, and outdoor skills. Scouts learn how coins are made, why designs change, and how money reflects different times. This brings balance to the wide range of badges by offering a calm activity that connects to real history.

It also connects to badges like American Heritage, Collections, and Personal Management. Scouts who enjoy organizing and learning about the past often find this badge a good match. It supports the program’s goal of helping Scouts explore many interests.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Coin Collecting merit badge supports the larger goals of Scouts BSA by teaching patience, observation, and careful record-keeping. These habits help Scouts grow as thoughtful leaders.

It also ties into fitness, citizenship, and personal development. Studying coins helps Scouts understand national symbols and historical events. Building a small collection teaches responsibility and pride in good work.

What is the Coin Collecting merit badge about?

The Coin Collecting merit badge teaches Scouts how to collect, organize, and learn about coins. It helps Scouts explore the history, design, and value of coins from the U.S. and around the world.

Do I need to already have a coin collection to start the Coin Collecting merit badge?

No, you don’t need a collection to start. As you work on the badge, you will gather coins as part of the requirements. You can start with coins you already have or look for new ones with help from your counselor.

What kinds of coins do I need to collect for the Coin Collecting merit badge?

You will need to collect U.S. coins, coins from different time periods, and coins from other countries. Specific requirements include coins like pennies, nickels, dimes, and special series like state quarters. You will also collect world coins and paper money.

Where can I find coins for the Coin Collecting merit badge?

You can find coins in pocket change, from family or friends, or by visiting coin shops and shows. Online shops and coin clubs are also good places to find coins. Ask your counselor for tips on finding coins.

What do I learn about coins in the Coin Collecting merit badge?

You will learn about the designs, symbols, and history of coins. You will also learn how coins are made, how to store and protect them, and how to identify special coins like commemoratives.

Do I need to buy expensive coins for this badge?

No, you don’t need to buy expensive coins. Most of the coins you collect can be found in change or purchased at low cost. The focus of the Coin Collecting merit badge is learning, not spending money.

Can I use online resources to help with the badge?

Yes, online resources like virtual exhibits or coin reference sites can help. Be sure to get permission from your parent or guardian and check with your counselor to make sure the resource is approved.

How long does it take to finish the Coin Collecting merit badge?

The time it takes depends on how quickly you can gather coins and complete the activities. If you already have some coins, you might finish faster. Take your time to learn and enjoy the process.

What is the most fun part of earning the Coin Collecting merit badge?

Many Scouts enjoy finding unique coins and learning their stories. Visiting a coin show or club meeting is also a fun way to meet other collectors and see rare coins.

Why is the Coin Collecting merit badge important?

This badge helps Scouts develop skills like organization, attention to detail, and research. It also teaches history and connects you to people and cultures around the world through coins.

The Coin Collecting merit badge helps Scouts learn about the fascinating world of coins. It’s more than just gathering loose change—it’s about discovering the stories behind the designs, learning how coins are made, and understanding their connection to history and culture. Whether you’re looking at a penny from decades ago or a coin from another country, there’s always something new to learn.

Scouts work on collecting coins from the U.S. and around the world. They learn how to identify features like dates, mint marks, and denominations. They also explore special series, such as state quarters or bicentennial coins, to understand how coins can commemorate important people and events. Collecting paper money and medals adds another layer of interest to the badge.

The Coin Collecting merit badge isn’t just about history—it also teaches practical skills. Scouts learn how to organize and care for their collection, ensuring it stays in good condition for years to come. Activities like visiting a coin show or meeting with other collectors give Scouts a chance to see rare coins and share ideas.

This merit badge is a great way to start or grow a new hobby. By the end, Scouts not only earn the badge but also gain a deeper appreciation for the role coins play in telling stories from around the world.