Stamp Collecting Merit Badge

Stamp Collecting and the Trail to Eagle

Stamp Collecting is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.

Stamp Collecting Merit Badge Requirements

Summary of the 8 main requirements for Stamp Collecting. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.

1
Do the following:
1. a.Discuss how you can better understand people, places, institutions, history, and geography as a result of collecting stamps.
2. b.Briefly describe some aspects of the history, growth, and development of the United States postal system.
2
Define topical stamp collecting. Name and describe three other types of stamp collections.
3
Show at least ONE example of each of the following: perforated and imperforate stamps, mint and used stamps, sheet/booklet/coil stamps, overprint and surcharge, and others.
4
Do the following:
1. a.Demonstrate the use of ONE standard catalog for several different stamp issues.
2. b.Explain the meaning of the term condition as used to describe a stamp.
5
Demonstrate the use of at least THREE of the following stamp collector's tools.
6
Do the following: show a stamp album and how to mount stamps, discuss at least THREE ways you can help to preserve stamps.
7
Do TWO of the following: design a stamp, visit a post office or stamp show, write a review of a stamp article, research a famous stamp personality, describe the steps taken to produce a stamp, or prepare a stamp display.
8
Mount and show, in a purchased or homemade album, ONE of the following collections.

Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.

How to Earn the Stamp Collecting Merit Badge

1. Get a blue card and a counselor

Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Stamp Collecting, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.

2. Plan around the setting

Stamp Collecting is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.

3. Budget the time

Expect about 6 weeks for a easy badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.

4. Track every requirement

Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 12 Stamp Collecting requirements for you.

Stamp Collecting Merit Badge FAQ

Is the Stamp Collecting merit badge required for Eagle Scout?

No. Stamp Collecting is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.

How long does the Stamp Collecting merit badge take?

Most scouts finish Stamp Collecting in about 6 weeks, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.

Where do scouts usually earn the Stamp Collecting merit badge?

Stamp Collecting is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Stamp Collecting can sign off requirements.