Vietnam (1961-75) Militaria Collectibles

Vietnam was the first war seen in gruesome detail on television. It can perhaps be argued that this, more than anything else, is responsible for America finally withdrawing from this botched, misguided mission. Vietnam was essentially a guerilla war, and America was ill fated from the start. America allowed itself to be painted in a corner, more or less, when as a legacy from the French, the found themselves supporting a Catholic faction in Buddhist country. From a military point of view, however, in addition to some hard lessons, this war did introduce some of the elements of contemporary warfare, notably air cavalry.

 

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.