Militaria (Date Unknown) Militaria Collectibles

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. Re-enactors typically use many items of militaria of indeterminate vintage, particularly unit patches and rank insignia. The basic insignia of rank in the US armed forces have barely changed since the US army was first formed.

 

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. Even if you can’t identify its exact time period, militaria can be fascinating to collect—and can still appreciate in value.