AR 870-20 — Army Museum Enterprise And Army Artifact Collection
AR 870-20 governs policies and responsibilities for Army Museum Enterprise management, artifact collection, preservation, and public-trust accountability.
- Publication number: AR 870-20
- Title: ARMY MUSEUM ENTERPRISE AND ARMY ARTIFACT COLLECTION
- Date: 01/14/2026
- Proponent: AASA
- Status: ACTIVE
View AR 870-20 on armypubs.army.mil
AR 870-20 addresses Army museums, private organizations, artifact care and use, education and training, exhibitions, historic property, and the National Museum of the United States Army. It requires accountability records, approved systems, conservation controls, trained artifact handlers, and periodic internal control evaluations.
Applies to: Likewise, ARNG are subject to this regulation and AME policies as they relate to Army artifacts in their possession, and yet remain under the direction of the state adjutants general with coordinating oversight through the ARNG.
Topics covered
- Army Museum Enterprise administration
- Army artifact collection
- Artifact preservation
- Private organizations supporting museums
- Artifact exhibitions
- Weapons demonstrations
- Historic property command responsibilities
Questions and answers
What is the primary mission of an Army museum?
The primary mission of an Army museum is to educate and train Soldiers, DACs, and the public. (paragraph 2-2)
What records must the artifact accountable officer maintain?
The AAO will maintain a formal set of accounting records for all artifacts and art in the Army artifact collection and ensure accountability of the Army artifact collection. (paragraph 3-2)
How long must environmental records for artifacts be maintained?
Environmental conditions (temperature and RH) must be continually monitored, data recorded monthly, and records maintained for at least 2 years. (paragraph 5-1)
Are battle re-enactments authorized for Army Museum Enterprise activities?
Battle re-enactments are not authorized for AME activities. (paragraph 6-3)
Can an Army artifact be fired in a weapons demonstration?
The firing of any AME designated artifact is prohibited and therefore requires a waiver prior to its use in a demonstration. (paragraph 1-1)