Coin Collecting Merit Badge

The Coin Collecting merit badge is a fun way for Scouts to learn about money and history. Coins can tell stories about the past, and working on this badge helps Scouts explore those stories. It’s not just about collecting coins; it’s about learning where they come from and why they were made. This makes earning the Coin Collecting merit badge an interesting and educational experience.

Scouts who work on the Coin Collecting merit badge develop attention to detail. They learn to look closely at coins to understand their design, markings, and condition. This skill helps them notice things they might not have seen before. It also encourages curiosity about different times, places, and cultures.

The Coin Collecting merit badge can also teach Scouts about setting goals and organizing their collections. As they gather and sort coins, they practice planning and decision-making. These are useful skills that help in school and other areas of life.

This badge is a great way to explore a new hobby or build on an interest you already have. Collecting coins can be a lifelong activity. By earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts gain knowledge and skills they can use for years to come.

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Requirements

Coin Collecting Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

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

How Coins Are Made and Where They Are Minted

When working on the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts learn how coins are made and where they come from. Coins in the United States are made at facilities called mints. A mint is a place where money is created. The U.S. has active mints in four locations: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco, and West Point. Each mint plays an important role in making coins for the country.

The process of making coins is called minting. First, a design is created, which includes the images, numbers, and letters you see on a coin. Then, metal blanks, called planchets, are prepared. These planchets go through presses that stamp the design onto them. This creates the finished coin. After they are made, coins are inspected to make sure they are correct before being sent out for use.

Each U.S. Mint facility has a specific job. For example, Philadelphia and Denver make coins for everyday use. San Francisco focuses on proof coins, which are high-quality coins for collectors. West Point creates special coins, like gold and silver ones. When you look at a U.S. coin, you might see a small letter, called a mint mark, that shows where it was made. “P” is for Philadelphia, “D” is for Denver, “S” is for San Francisco, and “W” is for West Point.

By learning about how coins are made and where they are minted, Scouts gain a better understanding of the history and craftsmanship behind money. This knowledge is an important part of earning the Coin Collecting merit badge.

Understanding Key Coin Terms

When working on the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts learn important terms used by collectors. These words help explain the parts and features of coins and how they are organized in collections. Knowing these terms makes it easier to talk about coins and understand their history.

Obverse and reverse: The obverse is the front of the coin. It usually has a picture of a person, like a president, or a symbol, like the Statue of Liberty. The reverse is the back of the coin. This side often shows a design related to history, nature, or important events. For example, on a U.S. quarter, the obverse has George Washington, and the reverse shows different designs depending on the state or series.

Reeding: Reeding is the texture or grooves found on the edges of some coins. If you feel the edge of a quarter or a dime, you’ll notice small ridges. These ridges were originally added to prevent people from scraping off the coin’s metal when coins were made of valuable materials like silver or gold. Today, reeding helps identify coins and makes them harder to counterfeit.

Clad: A clad coin is made from layers of different metals. Modern U.S. coins like dimes, quarters, and half dollars are clad coins. They have a copper core sandwiched between layers of nickel. Clad coins are durable and less expensive to make than coins made of solid silver or gold.

Type set and date set: A type set is a collection of coins where each coin represents a different design or type. For example, you could have a type set of pennies showing all the different designs used over the years. A date set is a collection of coins with the same design but different years. For instance, a date set of nickels might include every year they were made during a certain period.

By understanding these terms, Scouts can describe coins and organize collections more easily. This knowledge helps them succeed in earning the Coin Collecting merit badge and builds their interest in the hobby.

How to Store a Coin Collection

When earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts learn that storing coins properly is important. The right storage protects coins from damage like scratches, dirt, and tarnish. There are several ways to store a collection, each with its own benefits, drawbacks, and costs.

Coin folders: Coin folders are cardboard books with spaces for coins. Each spot is labeled with the coin’s type and date, making it easy to organize and display a collection. Folders are inexpensive and simple to use. However, they don’t protect coins from air or moisture, so they may not be the best choice for valuable coins.

Coin albums: Coin albums are similar to folders but have plastic covers that protect coins while still allowing you to see them. Albums are more durable and offer better protection against scratches and dirt. They cost more than folders, but they are worth it if you want to keep your coins in good condition.

2×2 holders: These are small cardboard or plastic holders with clear windows. You place a coin inside, and the holder keeps it safe from damage. These holders are inexpensive and can be stored in a box or binder. However, they take more time to use, and it can be harder to display your collection compared to folders or albums.

Coin tubes: Coin tubes are plastic cylinders that hold a stack of coins. They are useful for storing many coins of the same type, like pennies or quarters. Tubes protect coins well and save space, but they aren’t good for displaying coins or organizing them by date.

Hard plastic cases: For rare or valuable coins, hard plastic cases offer the best protection. These cases are airtight and protect coins from moisture and damage. They are the most expensive option and are usually used for high-value coins.

By learning about these storage methods, Scouts can choose the best option for their collection. Understanding how to protect their coins is an important part of the Coin Collecting merit badge and helps preserve their collection for years to come.

Understanding One-Cent Coins and the Unique 2009 Designs

When working on the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect coins to learn about their designs and history. One-cent coins, often called pennies, are a great example of how coins can change over time. Pennies minted between 1959 and 2008 look different from those minted from 2010 to today, and the coins from 2009 are unique.

From 1959 to 2008, U.S. pennies featured the Lincoln Memorial on the reverse (back) side. This design honored Abraham Lincoln and the building in Washington, D.C., named after him. The obverse (front) side of the penny showed a portrait of Lincoln, which has been on U.S. pennies since 1909. The coins from 2010 to the present also show Lincoln on the front, but their reverse design is different. They feature a shield, symbolizing unity and strength. This design replaced the Lincoln Memorial in 2010.

Pennies from 2009 are special because they celebrate the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth and the 100th anniversary of his image appearing on the penny. That year, the U.S. Mint released four different reverse designs, each showing a scene from Lincoln’s life. These designs include:

• Lincoln’s birthplace, a log cabin.
• His early years, reading as he worked as a rail-splitter.
• His career as a young lawyer in Illinois.
• His presidency and the Capitol dome under construction.

These 2009 pennies are different because they tell the story of Lincoln’s life through their designs. Collecting them can teach Scouts more about history and why coins are sometimes used to honor important people and events. Understanding the differences between these pennies helps Scouts connect history to coin collecting, an important part of earning the Coin Collecting merit badge.

Exploring Five-Cent Coins and the Special 2004-2005 Designs

While earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect coins from different years to learn about changes in design and history. Five-cent coins, often called nickels, have an interesting story. Nickels minted between 1959 and 2003 and those from 2006 to the present look different, but the coins from 2004-2005 stand out because of their unique designs.

From 1959 to 2003, nickels featured a portrait of Thomas Jefferson on the obverse (front) and his home, Monticello, on the reverse (back). This classic design was created in 1938 and remained unchanged for decades. In 2006, the obverse changed to a new portrait of Jefferson, showing him facing forward, while Monticello returned to the reverse with a refreshed design.

The nickels from 2004-2005 are special because they were part of the Westward Journey Nickel Series. These coins celebrated the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition and the Louisiana Purchase. During these two years, the reverse designs changed to show themes from the expedition:

• In 2004, one nickel featured the “Peace Medal” design, showing hands shaking to represent peace between Native Americans and explorers. Another had a keelboat, the type of boat used by Lewis and Clark.
• In 2005, one nickel showed a bison, symbolizing the wildlife of the western plains, and another had an ocean view with the words “Ocean in view! O! The joy!,” reflecting Clark’s journal entry upon reaching the Pacific.

These 2004-2005 nickels are unique because they tell the story of exploration and American history. Collecting them helps Scouts see how coins can honor important events. Learning about these coins is an important part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, helping Scouts connect history and design to the hobby.

Collecting a Ten-Cent Coin from 1965 to Today

When working on the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect different coins to learn about their history and design. Ten-cent coins, known as dimes, have been made with the same design since 1946, but there are some interesting changes to know about starting in 1965.

The dime features President Franklin D. Roosevelt on the obverse (front) side. He was chosen to honor his leadership and his work to fight polio, a disease that affected many people during his time. The reverse (back) side shows a torch, an olive branch, and an oak branch. Together, these symbolize liberty, peace, and strength.

In 1965, the U.S. Mint stopped making dimes with silver because the value of silver had risen too high. Instead, they started making “clad” coins. A clad coin has layers of different metals. For modern dimes, the core is copper, and the outer layers are nickel. This change made the coins less expensive to produce while still looking silver.

Collecting a ten-cent coin from 1965 to today helps Scouts learn about how coins change to meet the needs of the economy. It’s also a chance to appreciate the long-lasting design of the Roosevelt dime. Understanding these changes is a helpful step in earning the Coin Collecting merit badge and learning about the history behind everyday coins.

Exploring the History of U.S. Quarters Through Special Programs

As part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect quarters from different time periods to learn about their designs and the programs that inspired them. The U.S. Mint has introduced several special programs for quarters, each with a unique purpose.

Quarters from 1965-1998: During this period, quarters featured George Washington on the obverse (front) and an eagle on the reverse (back). This design, called the Washington Quarter, honored Washington’s leadership and remained the same for over 30 years. In 1965, quarters changed from silver to clad (layers of copper and nickel) to reduce costs, just like dimes.

50-State Quarters® Program (1999-2009): This program celebrated each of the 50 U.S. states. Every state had its own reverse design, showing something special about its history, culture, or landmarks. For example, Pennsylvania’s quarter features the Liberty Bell, and California’s quarter shows Yosemite National Park. The program encouraged people to learn about all the states while collecting coins, and it became very popular.

America the Beautiful® Program (2010-2021): This series focused on national parks, forests, and historic sites in the U.S. Each coin had a reverse design showing a place of natural or cultural importance, such as Yellowstone National Park or the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. These coins highlighted the beauty and history of the country, helping collectors appreciate the importance of preserving these sites.

American Women Quarters® Program (2022-2025): This program honors notable women in American history. Each quarter’s reverse design features a different woman who made significant contributions, such as Maya Angelou, a famous writer and activist, or Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space. The program aims to celebrate diversity and inspire future generations.

Collecting quarters from these programs teaches Scouts how coins can reflect history, culture, and achievements. Understanding the purpose behind each series is an important part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, helping Scouts connect their collections to the stories behind the designs.

Collecting a Half Dollar Coin from 1965 to Today

When working on the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect different coins to learn about their history and design. Half dollar coins, worth fifty cents, have a unique story. Although they are not used as much in everyday transactions today, they remain a popular choice for collectors.

Since 1964, the half dollar has featured President John F. Kennedy on the obverse (front). This design honors Kennedy’s legacy after his assassination in 1963. The reverse (back) shows the presidential seal, which includes an eagle holding an olive branch and arrows to symbolize peace and strength.

In 1965, half dollars were no longer made of 90% silver. Instead, they were produced as clad coins with a mix of copper and nickel. However, between 1965 and 1970, half dollars still included some silver (40%), making them valuable to collectors. After 1970, half dollars were made entirely from copper and nickel. In 1976, the design temporarily changed to celebrate the United States Bicentennial, featuring Independence Hall on the reverse.

Although half dollars are not widely used in circulation, they are still made by the U.S. Mint for collectors. By collecting a half dollar from 1965 to the present, Scouts learn about changes in coin composition and how coins can honor important events and people. This knowledge is an essential part of earning the Coin Collecting merit badge.

Exploring Dollar Coins from Three Unique Series

As part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect different dollar coins to learn about their designs and the history they represent. Dollar coins have changed over time, with each series reflecting different themes and goals.

Susan B. Anthony Dollar (1979-1981, 1999): The Susan B. Anthony dollar was the first U.S. coin to feature a real woman other than a symbolic figure. Susan B. Anthony was a leader in the women’s suffrage movement, which fought for women’s right to vote. The coin’s obverse (front) shows her portrait, while the reverse (back) features an eagle landing on the moon, representing the Apollo 11 mission. These coins were small and similar in size to quarters, which made them unpopular for daily use because people often confused the two.

Sacagawea Dollar (2000-2008): This series honored Sacagawea, a Shoshone woman who helped guide the Lewis and Clark expedition. The obverse features her portrait with her infant son, Jean Baptiste, in a cradleboard on her back. The reverse of the original design shows an eagle in flight. These coins are golden in color because they are made with a copper core and a manganese-brass coating. This gives them a distinct appearance, making them easier to tell apart from other coins. Starting in 2009, the reverse designs changed yearly to feature images celebrating Native American contributions to history.

Presidential Dollar Series (2007-2016): This series honored U.S. presidents in the order they served, starting with George Washington. Each coin’s obverse shows a president’s portrait, while the reverse features the Statue of Liberty. These coins are also golden in color and were designed to encourage the use of dollar coins in everyday transactions. However, like the earlier series, they were not widely used and became more popular with collectors than the general public.

By collecting dollar coins from these three groups, Scouts can see how coins honor important people and events in U.S. history. Understanding the stories behind these designs helps Scouts develop a deeper appreciation for their collections, an important part of the Coin Collecting merit badge.

Bicentennial Coins: Special Designs to Celebrate 200 Years of the United States

While earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts learn about coins that honor important events in U.S. history. The U.S. Bicentennial, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, inspired special designs for the quarter, half dollar, and dollar coins minted in 1975-1976. These coins are unique because they have a dual date, “1776-1976,” instead of the usual single year.

Bicentennial Quarter: The reverse (back) of the Bicentennial quarter features a colonial drummer standing next to a torch with thirteen stars above it, symbolizing the original thirteen colonies. This design replaced the traditional eagle that had appeared on quarters for decades. The colonial drummer highlights the spirit and determination of the early American patriots.

Bicentennial Half Dollar: The half dollar’s reverse shows Independence Hall in Philadelphia, where the Declaration of Independence was signed. This design celebrates the location’s role in American history. The words “200 Years of Freedom” are written above Independence Hall to emphasize the importance of this milestone.

Bicentennial Dollar: The reverse of the Bicentennial dollar coin features an image of the Liberty Bell superimposed over the moon. This design combines two powerful symbols: the Liberty Bell, representing American freedom, and the moon, celebrating the U.S. space achievements, including the Apollo missions.

These coins were struck in both standard copper-nickel clad versions for circulation and special 40% silver versions for collectors. They were widely produced and became popular among Americans during the Bicentennial celebrations. Collecting these coins helps Scouts understand how coins can honor history and preserve national pride. Learning about these designs is a key part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, teaching Scouts the connection between coins and important events in U.S. history.

Who Is on U.S. Currency and Where It Is Printed

As part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts learn about both coins and paper money. U.S. currency features portraits of important historical figures who contributed to the country’s development. Understanding who is on these notes and how they are printed is a valuable part of this merit badge.

People on Current U.S. Currency:

• $1 bill: George Washington, the first president of the United States, is on the $1 bill.
• $2 bill: Thomas Jefferson, the third president and author of the Declaration of Independence, is featured on the $2 bill.
• $5 bill: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president who led the country during the Civil War, appears on the $5 bill.
• $10 bill: Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury and a key figure in establishing the U.S. financial system, is on the $10 bill.
• $20 bill: Andrew Jackson, the seventh president, is on the $20 bill.
• $50 bill: Ulysses S. Grant, the 18th president and a Union general during the Civil War, appears on the $50 bill.
• $100 bill: Benjamin Franklin, a Founding Father and inventor, is on the $100 bill. Franklin was never president but played a major role in the founding of the United States.

Where U.S. Currency Is Printed:
Paper money in the United States is printed at two facilities operated by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP). These facilities are located in Washington, D.C., and Fort Worth, Texas. The BEP is responsible for designing, printing, and distributing U.S. currency. It uses advanced technology and security features, such as watermarks and color-shifting ink, to make counterfeiting difficult.

By learning about the people on U.S. currency and where it is printed, Scouts gain a better understanding of the history and processes behind money. This knowledge is an important part of earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, helping Scouts connect their collections to the broader story of the nation’s financial system.

Collecting and Identifying World Coins

As part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts collect coins from around the world to learn about different countries and their history. Collecting 20 or more coins from at least seven countries may seem like a big task, but it’s a fun way to explore world cultures. Understanding how to identify the country, design elements, and denominations makes this activity both interesting and educational.

Country: Most world coins include the name of the country somewhere on the coin. Sometimes it is written in the native language, so it may look unfamiliar. For example, a coin from Germany might say “Bundesrepublik Deutschland,” which means “Federal Republic of Germany.” If the country name isn’t clear, symbols like flags, maps, or famous landmarks can also help identify the country of origin.

Design Elements: World coins often feature symbols or images that reflect a country’s culture, history, or natural resources. These might include national leaders, famous buildings, animals, plants, or important events. For instance, a Canadian coin might show a maple leaf, while a coin from Australia could have a kangaroo or koala. Paying attention to these details can give clues about the country and what it values.

Denomination: The denomination tells you the value of the coin. This is usually written as a number with a unit, such as “10 Yen,” “1 Peso,” or “50 Euro Cents.” Some coins use symbols like “₹” for the Indian Rupee or “£” for the British Pound. Knowing the denomination helps you understand the coin’s place in the country’s currency system.

To build your collection, check coin shops, ask friends or family who have traveled, or look online for world coin sets. Organizing your collection in a way that shows the country, design features, and denomination makes it easier to share what you’ve learned with your counselor. This activity helps Scouts explore the diversity of the world through coins, a valuable part of the Coin Collecting merit badge.

Collecting and Identifying World Paper Money

When earning the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts can explore world cultures by collecting and identifying paper money from at least seven different countries. Paper money, also called banknotes, offers a fascinating look at the history, people, and values of different nations. By examining the country, design features, and denominations, Scouts can gain a deeper appreciation for global diversity.

Country: Banknotes usually include the name of the country that issued them. This may be written in the native language, so it’s helpful to look for symbols, landmarks, or famous figures associated with the country. For example, the note might display a national flag, a map, or text identifying the central bank. If the country name isn’t obvious, online tools or guides can help.

Design Elements: World banknotes often have colorful and detailed designs. They might show national leaders, cultural figures, or important historical events. Nature is also a common theme, with images of native animals, plants, or scenic landscapes. Security features like watermarks, holograms, and microprinting are added to prevent counterfeiting, making these notes even more interesting to study.

Denomination: The denomination indicates the value of the note. It is usually shown as a large number along with a unit of currency, such as “10 Baht” (Thailand), “5 Euros” (European Union), or “100 Yen” (Japan). Some notes use symbols like “₱” for the Philippine Peso or “$” for dollars used in several countries. Understanding denominations helps Scouts compare values across currencies.

To build a collection, check with friends or family who have traveled, visit currency exchange stores, or purchase affordable world money sets online. Organizing your collection by country and including notes on their design and denomination makes it easier to discuss with your counselor. This activity helps Scouts connect art, history, and geography to their hobby, a key part of the Coin Collecting merit badge.

Collecting and Identifying Tokens and Medals

For the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts can explore the world of tokens and medals. These items are not coins, but they are still fascinating to collect. Tokens and medals often represent historical events, organizations, or special purposes. By identifying the issuer and use of each, Scouts learn how these items tell unique stories.

Tokens: Tokens are similar to coins but are usually issued by private companies, organizations, or local governments instead of a national mint. They often have a specific use, such as being exchanged for goods, services, or transportation. For example, transit tokens were commonly used for buses and subways before digital payment systems. Arcade tokens and store tokens are other examples. Tokens often include the name or logo of the issuer and may display a denomination or purpose, such as “One Ride” or “Good for 5 Cents in Trade.”

Medals: Medals are struck to commemorate events, achievements, or individuals. They are not used as money but are often given as awards or souvenirs. Medals might honor military service, sporting events, or historical anniversaries. They are usually larger than coins and may include detailed designs, inscriptions, and the name of the event or organization that issued them. Some medals are made of precious metals like silver or gold, making them valuable to collectors.

Issuer and Use: When identifying a token or medal, look for any text or symbols that indicate who made it or what it was used for. For example, a token might say “Transit Authority” or “Amusement Arcade,” while a medal might mention a specific event like “World’s Fair 1964.” If no clear information is visible, research online or use reference guides to learn more about the item.

To start a collection, check antique shops, online marketplaces, or trade with other collectors. Organizing tokens and medals by type, issuer, or theme will help when discussing them with your counselor. Collecting tokens and medals is a great way to explore history and culture, making it a valuable part of the Coin Collecting merit badge experience.

Exploring Coin-Related Activities for the Merit Badge

As part of the Coin Collecting merit badge, Scouts can experience coin-related events and exhibits to learn more about the hobby. These activities are a great way to meet experts, see rare coins, and deepen your understanding of coin collecting. Here are some tips for making the most of these opportunities.

Attending a Coin Show: Coin shows bring collectors, dealers, and hobbyists together to buy, sell, and display coins. When attending a coin show, take time to walk around and look at the exhibits. You’ll see coins from different countries and time periods, including rare and historical ones. Many dealers are happy to answer questions, so don’t be afraid to ask about the coins you find interesting. Some shows also offer free appraisals or special activities for young collectors.

Visiting a Coin Club Meeting: Coin clubs are groups of people who share an interest in collecting coins. Meetings often include presentations, trading sessions, and discussions about coins. Attending a meeting is a good way to meet other collectors and learn from their experiences. You might hear tips about starting a collection, storing coins, or finding good deals.

Touring a U.S. Mint Facility or Museum: Touring a U.S. Mint is a unique chance to see how coins are made. You’ll learn about the minting process, from designing and engraving to striking and inspecting coins. If you can’t visit a Mint in person, many museums have exhibits on coin history. These often include displays of rare coins and artifacts that tell the story of money in the U.S.

Exploring a Virtual Exhibit: Virtual exhibits are a great option if traveling isn’t possible. Many museums and coin organizations offer online tours or educational resources about coins. Look for virtual displays approved by your counselor, and take notes on what you learn. These exhibits often feature high-quality images of coins and detailed explanations of their history.

Before attending an event or exploring an exhibit, plan ahead. Bring a notebook to jot down interesting facts or questions. Afterward, think about what you learned and how it connects to your own collection. These activities help Scouts gain new insights into the hobby, an important part of completing the Coin Collecting merit badge.

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

Merit badges let Scouts explore new skills, hobbies, and future careers. There are more than 100 topics to choose from, including science, outdoor skills, history, and trades. Any Scout can work on a merit badge at any time, even without earning a higher rank first. Talk to your Scoutmaster to get started and find out which badges match your interests.

The Coin Collecting merit badge is a great way to learn about history and develop a new hobby. Other badges cover fine arts, health, technology, and more. With so many choices, Scouts can discover new talents and have fun while learning valuable skills.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

Scouts BSA is a program for youth ages 11 to 17 that builds character, leadership, and citizenship. It uses outdoor activities, community service, and teamwork to help Scouts grow and gain valuable skills. Scouts BSA offers many opportunities, like earning merit badges, including the Coin Collecting merit badge, which teaches history and organization.

Scouts BSA welcomes everyone and supports personal growth through activities like camping and service projects. Scouts learn leadership and teamwork through the patrol system and advance through ranks. Earning badges like the Coin Collecting merit badge helps Scouts explore new interests and build skills for life.

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.