The large box-shaped scoop was used for collecting soil samples on the moon. The head of the scoop was rigidly mounted to a shaft, which could be attached to an extension handle. A rotating motion was used with this model of scoop to prevent soil from flying out of the pan. Scoops of this type were used on the Apollo 11, 12, and 14 missions. This particular item was not flown and was transferred to the Smithsonian in 1971.
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.