The history of the natural sciences is replete with instances of valuable contributions by nonprofessionals, from the discovery of new stars, the recognition and description of new species of flora and fauna, the collection and accurate recording of specimens, to the interpretation of the sciences to the general public through the media of the written and spoken word. Many museums have been founded or enriched through the generosity of amateur enthusiasts. Unfortunately, on the other side of the coin there are too many instances of commercialism, hoaxes, and fakes in many sciences. Archaeology is a favorite field of the nonprofessionals, who are to be found in every city or town, running the full gamut of boyhood curio seeker, amateur collector, Boy Scout explorer, private museum owner, serious nonprofessional student, pot hunter, commercial collector and trader, manufacturer and purveyor of false artifacts, and manipulator of skillful hoaxes.