About the Coin Collecting Merit Badge

The Coin Collecting Merit Badge introduces Scouts to the lifelong hobby of numismatics—the study and collecting of coins and currency. Along the way, Scouts build skills in:

• Careful observation and attention to detail
• Record keeping and organization
• Historical research
• Understanding value, condition, and design

Many collectors trace their interest in coins back to this very badge. It’s not about owning rare or expensive coins—it’s about learning how to look at coins with purpose and curiosity.

This merit badge is offered through Scouts BSA, with educational support and resources provided by the American Numismatic Association (ANA).

Official Coin Collecting Merit Badge Requirements

Below is a clear, plain-language breakdown of the current requirements and what each one is designed to teach.

How Coins Are Made & Where They Come From

Scouts begin by learning how coins are produced, from artwork to finished coin.

This includes:

• How coin designs are created
• How dies are made
• How coins are struck
• Where U.S. coins are minted today

Scouts should also be able to name active U.S. Mint facilities and explain what types of coins are produced at each location.

Understanding Key Numismatic Terms

Every collector needs a shared vocabulary. Scouts are asked to learn and explain common coin terms, including:

• Obverse – the front of the coin
• Reverse – the back of the coin
• Reeding – the grooved edge found on many coins
• Clad – coins made from layers of different metals
• Type set – one example of each coin design
• Date set – one coin from a series across multiple years

Being able to point these out on real coins is often more important than memorizing definitions.

👉 Check out our Glossary of Numismatic Terms HERE

Proper Coin Storage & Care

Coins are small pieces of history—and they deserve to be protected.

Scouts must describe at least three different storage methods, such as:

• Coin albums
• Cardboard 2×2 holders
• Plastic flips or sleeves
• Coin Boxes for Graded

They should explain the advantages and disadvantages of each method, including cost, protection, and ease of viewing. Counselors often look for an understanding of why coins should not be handled excessively or stored loosely.

Collecting and Identifying U.S. Coins

This is where the badge really comes alive.

Scouts collect and examine a selection of U.S. coins, including:

• One-cent coins (Lincoln Memorial, Shield, and modern issues)
• Five-cent coins (including the Westward Journey series)
• Dimes, quarters, half dollars, and dollar coins
• Coins from modern circulating programs

For each coin, Scouts should be able to:

• Identify the design
• Name the designer
• Locate the designer’s initials
• Discuss why certain years or designs are different

The goal isn’t perfection—it’s learning how to observe details and ask questions.

U.S. Paper Money Basics

The badge also introduces Scouts to U.S. paper currency.

Scouts are asked to:

• Identify the individuals pictured on modern U.S. banknotes
• Explain where U.S. paper money is printed
• Understand the difference between coins and currency in circulation

This requirement helps connect coins to the broader monetary system.

Advanced Options (Choose One)

To complete the badge, Scouts select one advanced activity, such as:

• Collecting and identifying coins from other countries
• Attending a coin show or club meeting
• Touring a mint, museum, or Federal Reserve facility
• Giving a short presentation on coin collecting
• Creating drawings of early American coins

Many Scouts choose to attend a local coin show, where they can see coins up close, talk with experienced collectors, and even participate in kid-focused activities and scavenger hunts.

Helpful Tips for Completing the Merit Badge

You don’t need rare coins or expensive supplies to succeed.

Most Scouts complete this badge using:

• Pocket change
• Coins borrowed from family members
• Low-cost albums or holders
• Free educational resources from the ANA

Coin shows and local clubs are especially helpful. They provide real-world exposure and often have mentors who enjoy working with young collectors.

Visual Learning: What Counselors Like to See

Counselors typically appreciate when Scouts can:

• Point out obverse vs. reverse on a coin
• Identify mint marks
• Show how coins are stored properly
• Explain differences between coin designs clearly

Confidence and understanding matter more than having a large collection.

Resources for Scouts & Counselors

• Official Coin Collecting Merit Badge requirements
• Educational materials from the American Numismatic Association
• Beginner coin collecting guides and worksheets
• Coin clubs, shows, and youth programs

Many collectors are surprised to learn that the ANA offers Scout-focused programs and learning tools designed specifically to support this badge.

Why This Badge Matters

The Coin Collecting Merit Badge isn’t just about coins—it’s about learning to slow down, observe details, and understand history through tangible objects.

For many Scouts, this badge becomes the starting point of a lifelong hobby—and sometimes even a future career in numismatics, history, or finance.