Coin Collecting Merit Badges
1938 - Present

1938 - 1960
The Coin Collecting Merit Badge began in 1938.  Through 1933, merit badges were manufactured in rolls and then cut into squares approximately two inches square.  Beginning in 1934, the shape of the merit badge was changed from square to round by folding the badge's edge under the back and crimping it.  This crimping style is the first type for the Coin Collecting Merit Badge.

1961 - 1968
In 1961, the crimped edge was changed to a rolled edge.  Earlier versions of less popular merit badges like Coin Collecting would continue to be sold through the 1960's until the old stock was sold.

1969 - 1972
Two changes were made in 1969.  The merit badge became fully embroidered and the design was changed to the Washington Quarter.  The lettering on the first issue of this type was white and did not show up well.

1973 - 1990
In 1973, the white lettering what changed to black for better contrast.

1990 - present
Sometime in the early 1990's the border for the Washington Quarter was changed from gray to black.  This remains the current style.

I have put together these coin pages because it was coin collecting that linked me to scouting back in 1959.  Today, I am still a coin collector and have been a scout leader for over 20 years.

I want to thank Brian "Sully" Sullivan for providing me with several of these merit badge images.  Scouters who go out of their way to help others are always appreciated.

The dates for the merit badges are "to the best of my knowledge."  If you know have better information, please let me know.  Thank you.

Merit Badge References:
The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Coin Collecting - written by Jenny
Coin Collecting 101 - Resource Links
Learn About Coin Collecting and Trading! - suggested link from Mrs. Duff's kindergarten class.
History of the American Numismatic Society - suggested link from Luke Whitney.
Coin Collecting Basics - suggested link from Sadie.
Home Hobbies: Coin Collecting - suggested link from Dakota.
Coin Collecting for the Novice - suggested link from Alex.
Coin Collecting For Kids Guidebook - suggested link from Ben Jackson.
Coin Collecting: Silver, Gold, and Beyond - suggested link from Patrick and Dom.
A Beginner's Guide to Coin Collecting - suggested link from Annie Pruitt.