Contains awards, correspondence, story proposals, photographs, art, and other material related to Cooper's career in the film industry during the beginning in the 1930s, but primarily in the 1950s and 1960s. These files also contain similar materials on the careers of Cooper's wife, Dorothy Jordan, and special effects technician Willis O'Brien. Dated 1920 to 1972.

Contains stock certificates, corporate and tax records, and a sound recording related to the legal foundations of Merian C. Cooper Enterprises. Dated 1957 to 1990.

Subseries contains correspondence, sound recordings, and other materials related to military operations in China during the Second World War. Materials date from 1942 to 1977.

Contains correspondence, photographs, sound recordings, and publications from 1922 to 1980 about Merian C. Cooper's family and that of his wife, Dorothy Jordan. There are also biographical sketches and articles about Cooper and about his funeral. Various personal records such as passports, club memberships, and obituaries are also found here.

Contains correspondence, obituaries, funeral service programs, eulogies, tributes, recordings, and photographs related to Cooper's death and burial. Materials date from 1973.

Contains sound recordings, awards, and other materials relating to Cooper's achievements. Materials date from between approximately 1952 to 1972.