Many of our most important archaeological artifacts were donated by collectors or people who just found something interesting on their property. The Office of the State Archaeologist (OSA) accepts prehistoric and historic artifacts from archaeological sites in Michigan and artifacts from shipwrecks in Michigan waters. The OSA does not purchase artifacts.

Objects offered as gifts to the collections of the OSA are more likely to be accepted if the location where the objects were found can be identified. Collectors are reminded that they need the land owner's permission to remove artifacts. A permit is required to remove artifacts from federal lands, state lands or Great Lakes bottomlands.

For more information, contact:

Dean Anderson, Ph. D., State Archaeologist, (517) 373-1618 or
Office of the State Archaeologist
State Historic Preservation Office
P.O. Box 30740
Lansing, MI 48909-8240

Updated 12/06/2010