Stamp Collecting Merit Badge (Worksheet & Requirements)

The Stamp Collecting Merit Badge is an excellent way to get started with Philately. The badge encourages Scouts to explore the world of stamps, learn about their history and gain a better understanding of the hobby.

The requirements for the merit badge are relatively straightforward. Scouts must complete the worksheet, attend a stamp show or meet with a stamp collector, and submit a report of their work to their Scoutmaster.

Worksheet

The worksheet for the Stamp Collecting Merit Badge helps Scouts understand the fundamentals of Philately. Scouts should have a basic understanding of the hobby before attempting the badge, but the worksheet helps break down the complexities of stamp collecting.

• Describe the different categories of stamps.
• Explain how to identify different stamps.
• Explain the different factors that influence the value of a stamp.
• Explain the basics of how to care for and store stamps.
• Explain the benefits of philately.
• Explain the history of the hobby.
• Explain the different methods of selling and trading stamps.

Requirements

In addition to completing the worksheet, Scouts must attend a stamp show or meet with a local stamp collector. The Scout should ask questions and take notes, and then write a detailed report for their Scoutmaster.

• Attend a stamp show or meet with a stamp collector.
• Write a report on your experience.
• Submit the report and worksheet to your Scoutmaster.

Conclusion

The Stamp Collecting Merit Badge introduces Scouts to the world of philately. Through completing the worksheet and attending a stamp show or meeting a collector, Scouts gain a basic understanding of the hobby. The badge is a great way for Scouts to gain an appreciation for stamp collecting and make lifelong friendships in the process.