Archaeological Collections

The archaeological collections consist of c. 300,000 cataloged items, c. 30,000+ cubic feet of research collections, c. 15,000 site survey collections, and several thousand type sherds.

General Information

Arizona State Museum's archaeological collections focus primarily on the American Southwest but also include small comparative collections of material from other parts of North America, South America, and the Old World.

The archaeological collections are organized into the following four sub collections:

The Catalog Collection contains the primary reference materials for archaeological projects. These items are frequently used for exhibition, illustration in special publications and catalogs, teaching, and general comparative studies.

The Research Collection constitutes the primary documentation of the published and unpublished analyses of archaeological projects. These collections are used in a variety of ways, including preparation for further field work in the same area or adjacent areas, and for restudies or more intensive studies of major artifact classes and other problem-oriented research.

The Site Survey Collection consists of small diagnostic samples of sherds and lithics from thousands of sites across Arizona. These collections can be used to determine spatial and temporal outlines of prehistoric cultures in the region.

The Southwestern Sherd Library consists of samples of southwestern pottery types from sites throughout the range of occurrence of the type. The library is used for comparative research and for identification and teaching purposes by ASM staff, scholars, and students.

Archaeological collections at ASM are accessible for study to scholars and students by application to the Head of Collections or the Archaeological Collections Curator (see below). Access may be granted for study at the museum or, in some instances, by loan to a scholar's home institution.

The archaeological collections at ASM are indexed by several databases. These databases are currently accessible in-house, but plans are underway to offer online access.

Queries about the archaeological collections should be addressed to:

Mike Jacobs
Archaeological Collections Curator
Arizona State Museum / University of Arizona
PO Box 210026
Tucson, AZ 85721-0026
520-621-6312

Note Regarding Appraisals

Ethical guidelines prevent us from providing appraisals. For businesses that can assist you with appraisals you may consult our List of Resources (PDF * ). The list does not indicate any preference or recommendation by the museum. It contains mainly businesses in the Tucson, AZ area. For other areas you may refer to the American Society of Appraisers to locate an appraiser or check with a local gallery that deals with American Indian art.

* PDF requires Adobe Acrobat Reader.

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