The Museum of Anthropology acquires specimens primarily through field collection.
Supplemental methods consist of gift, bequest, exchange and purchase.
All such acquisitions are for the express purpose of preserving, studying and exhibiting materials illustrating man's cultural heritage. Normally objects will only be acquired which amplify existing research collections or study collections used by University of Michigan students. The Museum will not acquire any cultural materials known or suspected to be illegally exported from their country of origin or illegally excavated in the United States. All potential acquisitions will be evaluated in terms of their documentation, previous ownership and possible value as an addition to the Museum collection. Archaeological field collections are made in strict compliance with the laws of the country, state or relevant political jurisdiction in which the field work is conducted.