Catalog Information / Collections records
Sampling and Casting Guidelines
Artifact Identification / Appraisals
Find Catalog Information
Our collections database includes information about the objects in our collections, including their identification, place of collection and cultural attribution. Information from the database is available in two ways:
- Browse archaeology and ethnology records on your own using the online version of the catalog database.
- Obtain a downloaded copy of the records in a printable format by completing our Printout Request Form.
More information about specific collections may be available in various documents and publications. Our Guide to Collections Records outlines the resources available.
Visiting the Collections
Access to the collections is provided by appointment only
Location and hours: The Smithsonian's Anthropology collections are stored at two locations:
- Archaeology and Ethnology collections are stored at the Museum Support Center (MSC) in Suitland, MD. Appointments are available Tuesday through Friday, 9 am to 5 pm, excluding federal holidays. Directions
- Physical anthropology collections are stored at the National Museum of Natural History in downtown Washington, D.C. Appointments are available Monday through Friday, 9:45 am to 5:30 pm, excluding federal holidays.
Repatriation-related visits should be scheduled directly with the Repatriation Office by calling (202) 633-1899.
Sampling and casting must be proposed well in advance and approved by the Department's Sampling Committee.
Related Collections Nearby
- The Museum Support Center also houses the Department of Anthropology's National Anthropological Archives and Human Studies Film Archives, but visitors must request a separate appointment to do research there.
- The collections of the National Museum of the American Indian are housed at the Cultural Resources Center, which is located next door to the Museum Support Center in Suitland, MD. Please contact NMAI staff directly for an appointment.
Fellowship Opportunities
Fellowships for research are available from the Smithsonian Institution's Office of Fellowships to support predoctoral and postdoctoral fellows, minority interns, visiting scholars and others. Native American researchers should note the Native American Awards Program, particularly the Native American Community Scholar Awards, and the National Museum of Natural History American Indian Program.
Artifact Identification
Staff of the Smithsonian Institution, as a matter of legal and ethical policy, do not authenticate or perform appraisals of any artifacts for the public. You may wish to contact the Appraisers Association of America to find a professional appraiser. The Smithsonian's Museum Conservation Institute has an excellent website with more information and resources relating to appraisals.
Anthropology staff may be able to provide some assistance with basic identification of anthropological artifacts, and may also provide resources for further research. The Anthropology Outreach Office coordinates this service. You may send photographs of your artifacts, but please do not send the artifacts themselves to the museum.
[ TOP ]