Objects for the Collection
Gifts of Partial Interest
Cash-Convertible
Objects/Property
Objects
for the Collection
The Smithsonian
generally accepts gifts of art works, furniture, manuscripts, and other collectibles only
if it intends to accession them into its collections. The acceptance of objects for the
collection must be very selective. This is to ensure that those objects acquired are
appropriate to the collections and can be properly cared for and used. Additionally, there
are policies which guide the Smithsonian's ability to accept each object submitted. If you
are considering making a gift or bequest of objects, please contact the Smithsonian via e-mail.
Gifts of
Partial Interest
In certain circumstances, a gift of partial interest in an object may be desirable. Under
such an agreement, you would agree to donate a percentage of ownership of the object to
the Smithsonian while retaining the other portion of ownership yourself, with an agreement
to transfer full ownership to the Smithsonian at a future date. There are numerous
considerations for both donors and the Smithsonian for arranging a gift of partial
interest. Please contact our planned giving
professionals for further information.
Cash-Convertible
Objects/Property
Other personal property, whether or not it is appropriate for the Smithsonian's
collections, may be given to the Smithsonian for sale to provide the Smithsonian with
income. Acceptance of such gifts would be determined by the salability of the
object(s)
and its value. In some cases, proceeds from the sale may be used to provide life income
for you. Please contact our planned giving
professionals if you are considering a gift of this nature.
All inquiries
regarding gifts to the Smithsonian will be considered completely confidential. For
further information about the gifting of objects, please contact the Smithsonian's
Visitor Information Associates Reception Center via e-mail.
For additional information regarding any other type of gift to the Smithsonian,
please send your e-mail request to membership@si.edu.
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