Indian Wars (1866-97) Militaria Collectibles

This period saw many epic battles, and many tragic slaughters. By now, the popular imagination has caught up with the historical reality—far from the pop culture standby of rampaging Indian warriors, this period consisted mostly of white soldiers and settlers exterminating Indians in massacre after massacre. In fact, little big horn can be seen as a brief payback for all the massacres Custer—known as Yellow Hair to the Indians—inflicted on various Indian tribes.

 

The term militaria refers to any of the many types of military collectible, such as medals, fatigues, guns, or basically anything that would be used by, or given to, someone in the military. Militaria are divided into two types, authentic original period pieces and reproductions. Why collect reproductions, you may wonder? Typically, reenactment hobbyists—people who recreate famous battles, dressed in full period military costume—use them. Collecting militaria is a fascinating hobby, especially for the history buff. In the case of militaria, it really is possible to stumble across something that will one day end up in a museum like the Smithsonian. Militaria tend to appreciate in value, and be appreciated for its historical value.