Artifact Donations

The National Air Force Museum of Canada is interested in collecting exceptional artifacts to enrich its holdings, as in accordance with its mandate. Therefore, all donated material should be air force related and historically significant to the evolution of Canadian military aviation. If you are in doubt about the suitability of your items, please contact the museum’s curatorial staff for an assessment.

Once you have decided to donate to our museum, please fill out our Intention to Donate Form  and provide an itemized listing with a brief description of every item e.g. title, timeline, provenance (history). All offers are considered and discussed with the museum’s acquisition committee. Once a decision is made, the curatorial staff will communicate with every donor to make further arrangements.

It is strongly recommended that you do not bring items to the museum before consulting with the curatorial staff.

For book, magazine or video donations please go to the Reference Library page.

Download: Intention to Donation Form (PDF)

FAQs about Artifact Donations

What is a Donation Agreement?
A Donation Agreement is a type of contract that outlines the full transfer of ownership of items to the museum. It is signed by both the donor and a representative of the museum. The National Air Force Museum of Canada is part of the Department of National Defence, as a non public entity. All donated items become public property and thus crown assets.

Am I entitled to an income tax receipt?
Once the Donation Agreement is signed by the donor, curatorial staff will issue an income tax receipt, if so requested. Based on Canada Revenue Agency requirements, the receipt has to reflect the fair market value of donated artifacts. This means that all items have to be appraised by the museum staff and, if necessary, other recognized appraisers. In some cases, the appraisal may be a long process and therefore the income tax receipt delayed.

Will the artefacts be displayed?
The decision to display all donated artefacts depends entirely upon the museum’s exhibitions policy, therefore not all items are directed to the showcases.

Will the artifacts be displayed?
The decision to display all donated artifacts depends entirely upon the museum’s exhibitions policy, therefore not all items are directed to the showcases.

What happens to items that are not on display?
All donated artifacts are catalogued into the museum’s database and stored in a climate controlled environment. The museum’s collection not on display can be accessed by donors, however arrangements with museum staff is required in advance.

In addition, some of the artifacts may be loaned out to accredited institutions as part of the museum’s regular exhibition activity and/or outreach programs.

Can I borrow the donated artifacts back once they have been donated?
In general, because of the increased risk of loss or damage, the museum does not lend objects to individuals. Will the artifacts be kept forever? The museum’s collections policy contains a strong directive against the disposal of objects from its collections. However, in exceptional circumstances, the museum may dispose of items, in accordance with the museums Code of Ethics.

What if I change my mind?
By signing the Donation Agreement, you are transferring full ownership of the item from your self to the museum in perpetuity. If you have any concerns, please contact us before signing.