Ron Burkey

This week Martin visits with knowledgeable dealer/collector Ron Burkey in Portsmouth, N.H. They discuss militaria trends, what is hot and what is not. They also talk about cautionary purchasing for the novice collector and explore many facets of collecting!

Listen here:

Ron Burkey Podcast 12-12-2011

Martin Willis is a Worthologist and auctioneer who owns Martin Willis Appraisals & Downsizing. You can hear his podcasts at Antique and Auction Forum, featuring interviews with key players in the antiques and collectibles trade.

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WorthPoint—Discover Your Hidden Wealth

A monumental, 12-sheet map depicting in remarkable detail the numerous battles and extensive military activity during the early years of the American Revolution and made Hessian mapmaker Charles Auguste de Gironcourt in 1780, will go up for auction at Christie’s on Nov. 15, 2011.

NEW YORK – A very rare manuscript Revolutionary War map with an estimated value of $1-$1.5 million will be offered for auction as part of Christie’s autumn “Fine Printed Books and Manuscripts including Americana” sale Nov. 15 at its New York Rockefeller Center saleroom. It is the only known such manuscript in private hands and one of five known versions of the map made. The others are all in institutions or libraries.

Made in New York by Hessian mapmaker Charles Auguste de Gironcourt in 1780, the monumental map (12 sheets, 83 ⅜ inches x 78 inches) depicts in remarkable detail the numerous battles and extensive military activity during the early years of the American Revolution. Hand-drawn in pen-and-ink and watercolor, the map illustrates troop movements, natural terrain features, cities and man-made structures such as bridges and roads all along New York, New Jersey, and Long Island and down to the upper Chesapeake Bay.

A detail of Philadelphia. De Gironcourt made only two other maps known to be extant, one of Charleston, South Carolina, and the other of troop dispositions on Manhattan Island. Following the war, the remained in New York.

Also offered in the sale is a contemporaneous map by de Gironcourt (1756-1811) depicting the fortifications, troop positions and ship positions in and around Charleston, S.C., at the time of the city’s siege and surrender on May 12, 1780. It measures 25 ⅜ in. x 19 ⅜ in. (estimate: $100,000-$150,000).

De Gironcourt was born in the town of Epinal in Lorraine, France, in 1756. Prior to joining the Hessian forces in 1776, he served in the French army and accompanied the Hessian (German) troops to America in May of 1777. He was commissioned second lieutenant in April 1776, and served as deputy quartermaster general from 1781-82. De Gironcourt succeeded the Hessian map-maker Capt. Reinhard Jacob Martin in the engineer corps attached to the Hessian commander’s staff, quartered at Morris House, New York. In this position, he continued Martin’s work recording the Hessians’ critical role in the American war.

The map comes from the Earls of Carysfort by direct descent to Sir William Proby, Bt, CBE, DL. It possibly could have come into the family through either the 1st Earl of Carysfort, John Joshua Proby (1751-1828) or his sons, the 2nd and 3rd earls.

For more information about this map or the “Fine Printed Books and Manuscripts including Americana,” visit the Christie’s website.

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WorthPoint—Discover Your Hidden Wealth

The top lot of the SoldUSA.com Internet and catalog auction was this Winchester poster from 1909, art by Philip R. Goodwin, garnering $4,246.

MATTHEWS, N.C. – A colorfully rich and vibrant poster from 1909, advertising the Winchester .401 caliber self-loading rifle—one of the most highly sought after of the Winchester images—sold for $4,246 in an Internet and catalog auction that went online in mid-December and ended Jan. 22 by SoldUSA.com. The poster was the top lot of the hundreds that changed hands.

The auction featured an array of categories: vintage firearms, ammunition and ammo boxes, militaria, advertising items, hunting and fishing and a nice selection of rare Buffalo Bill memorabilia.

“Thanks to the high prices realized in this auction, we’ve had numerous inquiries from consignors for the next sale, ending March 19,” said David Reichle of SoldUSA.com, who added that he was impressed with the spirited bidding in the Jan. 22 auction, and took it as a sign the economy is in a state of recovery. “Not only were prices going higher than even we expected, but we signed up around 200 new bidders, who competed with the large number of old bidders who also participated,” he said. “The sale overall was very encouraging.”

The Winchester poster was a beauty, and a rare beauty at that, originally executed by Philip R. Goodwin (specifically for Winchester) and lithographed circa 1908. The poster measured 15 ¼ inches by 29 ½ inches, and had both top and bottom bands. It had some light wrinkling near the top and bottom, but the piece’s rarity overrode its minor flaws.

Following are additional highlights from the auction (all prices quoted include a 13 percent buyer’s premium):

• The sale’s second top lot was another Winchester item—a 1917 calendar titled “Spooked,” originally painted in 1915 by W.K. Leigh (for Winchester) and lithographed in 1916 by the American Litho Co. (N.Y.). Also, a bright and clean shell box for Winchester Precision 200 target cartridges (.22 cal.) brought $475. All the shells were correct and three had been polished.

A Winchester Precision 200 target cartridges shell box (.22 caliber), bright and fully correct was purchased for $475.

• A Burnside cavalry carbine rifle, all-original and fully functional in dry operation, in beautiful condition, hammered for $1,718. The metal on the weapon had a plum/brown patina, with no deep pitting, and the wood had not been sanded or otherwise touched. The bore showed strong rifling, with normal widespread pitting. A label said the rifle had been “used at Fort Sanders.”

• An Evans lever-action sporting rifle with an interesting provenance changed hands for $1,302. The weapon had been assembled from leftover parts after the Evans Repeating Rifle Company went into bankruptcy in 1879. The work was supposedly done by E.G. Ridout & Co. (N.Y.) or Turner & Ross (Boston, Mass.), the two firms that acquired Evans’ remaining stock.

This very rare Civil War-era 1864 Lamson, Goodnow & Yale Company contract musket brought $1,163.

• An extremely rare 1864 Lamson, Goodnow & Yale Company contract musket, with fantastic cartouches on the stock, scored a bull’s-eye for $1,163. Only around 50,000 of these guns in this line were made, with this particular model being the last of the three types produced by the firm. The metal on the musket had a silver gray patina, with some light to moderate pinprick pitting.

This Civil War-era Whitney “New Model” .31 caliber 5-shot revolver with a 6-inch barrel sold for $1,092.

• A nice Civil War-era Whitney “New Model” .31 caliber, 5-shot revolver with a 6-inch barrel rang out at $1,092. The revolver was complete and in fine, original condition. The barrel and frame showed a uniform brown patina and the trigger guard a dull brass finish. The original numbered walnut grips were solid and intact. A prior owner had carved his initials into the grip.

A World War II German radio operator/air gunner badge with case made by C.E. Junkers gaveled for $1,056.

• An early World War II German Luftwaffe radio operator/air gunner badge, cased and made by C.E. Junkers (Berlin) coasted to $1,056. The beautiful wartime badge featured two-piece construction, with two rivets on the reverse mounting an eagle to an oak leaf wreath. The original blue leatherette case had outside gold lettering, and was hinged with a locking front.

• Rounding out the sale’s top lots, an 1860 Colt Army pistol with a very rare detachable shoulder stock, measuring 17 inches long and boasting an all-original wood butt stock with brass butt plate, commanded $565; and a Springfield-Krag M1899 carbine (3rd Model, made in 1902), one of only 2,000 manufactured and one of the last carbines in the Krag series, garnered $783.

SoldUSA.com’s next Internet and catalog auction is already online and will conclude March 19. Featured are hundreds of lots of militaria, ammunition, firearms and more. At press time, consignments for this sale were still being accepted. To consign an item or a collection, call 704.815.1500 or e-mail them at support [at] SoldUSA [dot] com.

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WorthPoint—Discover Your Hidden Wealth

Collecting militaria can be a minefield (pun intended), filled with misrepresented items and down right fakes. A good reference book can cost upwards of $60-100, but it will save you money in the long run. Many reference books are self-published or printed in small runs and become collectible in their own right. Having a reference library gives you an advantage over collectors who do not buy reference books.

2. Use Discussion Groups

Online forums and discussion groups are an excellent resource for collectors, but use caution because they are often homes for self-proclaimed “experts” that spread inaccurate information. Forum moderators are typically chosen because of their expertise, so follow what the moderators are saying until you get a read on the other members.

Two excellent militaria forums I frequent are US Militaria Forum and are Wehrmacht Awards.

3. Utilize an Inspection Period

If you are dealing with someone that does not offer an inspection period and you are not 100-percent confident about the item offered… walk away! For live or traditional auctions, the inspection period is before the bidding starts, so if you are not sure about an item, do not bid because all sales are final! Many eBay sellers offer an inspection period, but they are not obligated to. Make sure you read and understand the seller’s terms before placing your bid.

Make sure you utilize the inspection period. Items, such as this WW II face mask for a rocket launcher is very fragile and stiff from sitting in its original box for 60 plus years, and is being sold as-is. If you are not 100-percent confident about the item offered… walk away.

4. Buy the Item, Not the Story

You are going to hear a lot of stories as you build your collection. The only stories that are worth paying extra for are ones with verified provenance. Items with ironclad provenance sell for double or even triple what the item alone would bring. Provenance depends on the item, but may include: original bill of sale, photographs, affidavits, newspaper articles, oral histories, service records and other government documents.

5. Build your Network

Look for Militaria shows in your area and attend them. They are an opportunity to meet other collectors and build your network. Military Trader has an excellent event calendar. In online militaria groups and forums, follow posts by members that collect things you are interested in and email them, or send them a private message introducing yourself.

6. Collect the Best

Whether you are collecting military postcards or Damascus German daggers, strive to collect the best examples. If you are contemplating the purchase of an item you intend on upgrading later, don’t waste your money. The flaws you see in the item are the same flaws a future buyer will see when you try to sell it. Items with detracting features are seldom investments because their rate of appreciation is not significant. It’s best to hold off and wait for something you cannot upgrade.

This WWII Imperial Japanese Army helmet with a 2nd pattern cover is in very good condition, and 2nd pattern covers are actually harder to find than the 1st pattern. If you are contemplating the purchase of an item you intend on upgrading later, don’t waste your money, as the flaws you see in the item are the same flaws a future buyer will see when you try to sell it.

7. Be Patient

It takes time to learn that some “collectible” items are always available, while other collectible items appear on the market in intervals of: every few months, once a year, every couple of years, or practically never. New collectors understandably lack the experience to be able to make distinctions on scarcity. Being patient will save you money in the long run because it will lessen the odds of making purchases you will regret later.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

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Rick Stumbo is a Worthologist, one of the experts at WorthPoint, and he owns a store in Upperville, Virginia that specializes in militaria. In this video he discusses a colorful dress uniform worn by the Spanish Civil Guard.

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Whether it’s newspaper clippings saved from the day that will “live in infamy” or uniforms worn by the brave sailors stationed at the Hawaiian base, Pearl Harbor collectibles have a significance that is difficult to overstate.

“There’s just nothing that compares to that instance in history,” says WorthPoint Worthologist Chris Hughes.

Japan’s stunning strike on the U.S. Navy’s fleet at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, sank or damaged 21 ships of the U.S. Pacific Fleet, destroyed 188 aircraft and claimed more than 2,400 lives. The attack—the deadliest ever committed by a foreign power on U.S. soil—also plunged the nation headfirst into World War II. Before the attack, Americans had expressed little support for joining the war, but the devastation on Pearl Harbor quickly changed public opinion.

Because of Pearl Harbor’s historical importance, memorabilia can be difficult to find. Hughes says that war posters—many carrying the rallying cry, “Remember Pearl Harbor”—provide one of the easier points of entry for new collectors. Stressing sacrifice and strength, these colorful works can be had for anywhere from $75 to $250.

Reproductions are common, so Hughes warns beginners to be wary of posters priced for much less.

Clippings from magazines or newspapers chronicling the attack are also more common. WorthPoint’s sister site, GoAntiques, has Newsweek magazine issues from both the day of the attack and the week after, as well as an edition of the Honolulu Star-Bulletin printed on the day of the attack. The site, however, cautions that the copy of the newspaper may be a reproduction.

(left) Newsweek’s prescient cover story; (right) Honolulu Star-Bulletin’s Dec. 7 front page

For more seasoned collectors, personal items seem to hold the greatest appeal.

During the 1940s, sailors at Pearl Harbor sported white, “Donald Duck” type hats adorned with ribbons listing the ship to which they were assigned. Collectors, says Hughes, will often collect those ribbons if they list a ship that was sunk at Pearl Harbor.
Purple Hearts awarded posthumously are also sought-after collectibles.

“To find a medal group that’s named to someone killed at Pearl Harbor, that’s a Holy Grail item to a medal collector,” says Hughes. “They’re out there. They exist, but they sell at a premium.”

Photos taken by military personnel and personal correspondence from those who served at Pearl Harbor are also highly valued.

Hughes says collecting Pearl Harbor memorabilia takes patience and perseverance. In addition to GoAntiques, he suggests attending militaria shows and digging around online for items.

“There are discussion groups on the Internet that are very welcoming to new collectors,” shares Hughes.

To find out what your Pearl Harbor items might be worth, check out worthopedia.com or Goantiques’ PriceMiner tool, which is available by subscription.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

WorthPoint—Get the Most from Your Antiques & Collectibles

Of all WWII US Airborne military collectibles, Original helmets are one of the hardest items to obtain for a collection. There were three main types used in WWII. A fiber (cardboard) liner was used early on. This was soon replaced by high pressure (fiberglass) liners made by Inland and Westinghouse.

Original fiber airborne liners are so rare, they are virtually nonexistent. Inland liners are also quite rare. According to www.toppots.com, of the 1,900,000 Inland liners produced from 1942 to 1943, approximately 75,000 were converted to airborne configuration. It’s safe to assume that many of these left in Europe and other theaters.

Westinghouse manufactured liners appeared later in the war and they are the most common, but finding original airborne Westinghouse liners is not easy because of the high demand for airborne militaria. It is unknown how many airborne configured liners Westinghouse made.

Due to the popularity of WWII airborne collectibles and the scarcity of original helmets, the market is minefield of forgeries. That is why I was elated when my friend agreed to sell me my first Inland para liner. It took several years of coaxing, but we eventually agreed on a price and I am delighted to own it.

The kicker is where my friend found this piece of rare headgear; it was rescued from his relative’s costume rental store! When my friend found the helmet, it had General stars hot glued to the front, which he carefully removed (with no loss of paint). The store had also hot glued a bevo weave store tag inside the crown of the helmet over the Inland stamp. I debated over removing this label, but eventually I carefully removed the tag and kept it with the helmet.

The liner has been repainted, but it looks wartime. Strangely, there are traces of 6th Army Div decals beneath the paint. Creases in the khaki web A-straps indicate they have been folded up inside the liner from use as an infantry helmet. It is very fortunate they were not cut off like many Airborne Inland liners I’ve encountered.

With my Inland sitting proudly in my collection, I will now search to find an original leather chin cup for it, and an original M2 or M1-C shell to mate this liner with. In the meantime, I’ll use a regular fixed-bale M1 shell, which was appropriately used by airborne personnel as well.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

Grading condition for military collectibles is not a simple process. Militaria is different from many other collectibles, where flawless examples are ideal and items with condition issues have less value.

The two most important variables that complicate grading militaria are scarcity and provenance. Scarcity is self-explanatory. Provenance is the historical link between object and owner. Items that are not rare and lack provenance can simply be graded using a scale that ranges from “relic” (meaning ground dug and rough) to “Unissued” (out of the crate and barely touched).

Provenance is interesting in collecting militaria because it often provides clemency to the rules of condition. I will explain why. Many military objects collected were intended for use in combat. These items include helmets and headgear, field uniforms, field gear, firearms, and edged weapons. If the item shows use but has provenance to support the claim that it was used in combat, desirability for that item increases greatly.

For example, in WWII prior to D-Day, most US 101st and 82nd Airborne personnel were issued two sets of reinforced jump jackets and pants. Typically one set was impregnated with a chemical called CC-2 to protect the wearer from exposure to gas. The impregnated set was worn on the Normandy jump while the untreated set remained in England. While non-impregnated jump uniforms are rare, finding an impregnated set that was worn in combat is extremely rare. Few documented examples survive today and most show wear and tear from combat. Documented combat used sets are worth many times more than the clean sets.

Another example is a Civil War “shell jacket” recently sold at auction. It had excellent provenance of being worn at Gettysburg. In fact, the jacket had a repaired hole where the wearer being shot in it! This jacket brought over $55,000 while one in comparable condition without provenance would bring less than $2,000.

With the exception of Civil War collectibles, provenance for US militaria did not gain importance until recent years. Prior to this shift, a majority of collectors were “type collectors”, where their focus was on single facets of militaria like helmets, daggers, medals, or patches. When a veteran grouping was acquired from an estate, the items were broken up and scattered in the wind, making their provenance very difficult to verify or maintain afterward.

The hobby is changing and more collectors are expanded their interest in military objects to include the history of the individuals that used them. Many militaria collectors tolerate honest wear if it’s caused by normal use. Bad wear is often the result of improper storage and can seriously diminish the value of an item. Examples of bad wear include dry rot, mildew, mothing, mold, paint spots, pitting, rust, and corrosion. Once bad wear sets in, it is very difficult to reverse the process and it detracts from the presentation and desirability of a piece.

Bad wear is particularly frowned upon among items not used in the field like dress uniforms, presentation swords, medals, paperwork, photos, plaques, and awards.

There are instances when an item is rare enough that bad wear is tolerated. An example would be Civil War garments that have mothing. Today, many of these pieces look like Swiss cheese, yet their scarcity makes them a coveted item and a centerpiece in any collection.

In summary, if a militaria item is not considered scarce and does not have provenance, it can be graded on a condition scale much like a coin or a stamp. If the item is truly rare and/or has verified, significant provenance other factors apply when assessing value. The rule of thumb for militaria (and any collectible) is strive to buy the best. Time and money is wasted when you buy items you intend on upgrading in the future.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

Militaria-Filled WWII Bunker Discovered in Denmark

A German WWII bunker was found on Denmark’s North Sea coast by archeologists. The bunker has been untouched for 63 years, the Danish newspaper, Politiken, reported. According to Jens Andersen, director of the Hansholm Bunker Museum, wind blew away a layer of sand that had been covering the bunker and its booty of collectibles, exposing the military holding for the first time in more than six decades.

Archaeologists who inspected the site found the interior had not been touched since German troops abandoned it. An interior rife with military antiques includes chairs, bunks, cabinets, pieces of uniforms and bottles of ink.

According to Germany’s English-language newspaper The Local, this historic military bunker is one of more than 5,000 Nazi bunkers that line Denmark’s North Sea coast, part of what was known as the Third Reich’s “Atlantic Wall” line of defense.

At Both Christie’s and Sotheby’s, Bacon Brings It Home

In London, Christie’s and Sotheby’s held high-profile contemporary art sales, hoping to capitalize on recent escalating sales by well-known artists. At Christie’s, high estimates coupled with minimum guarantees made for a disappointing combination on July 1, despite exciting results for a Francis Bacon piece.

According to Bloomberg.com, healthy bidding accompanied a set of three self-portraits by Bacon titled, “Three Studies for Self-Portrait,” 1975. The artwork fetched $34.5 million, bought by an anonymous buyer by phone, and was the most expensive lot for the auction. The works of three other artists, considered pre-auction standouts, had mixed results. A Jeff Koons’ sculpture went for $25.6 million after being estimated at almost $24 million. Lucian Freud’s 1980 “Naked Portrait with Reflection” brought in more than $23.4 million after having a top estimate of $30 million. Lucio Fontana’s “La Fine di Dio,” on the other hand, estimated at close to $16million, did not sell.

At Sotheby’s auction the following day The New York Times reported brisk sales of contemporary paintings by Bacon, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Hirst and Marlene Dumas. Dumas’ 1995 “Visitor” sold for $6.3 million, two times Sotheby’s high estimate. Sotheby’s estimated the Bacon, a portrait of George Dyer, at $15.5 million: it sold for $27.4 million.

Mega Summer Antiques Show in Baltimore

The Baltimore Summer Antiques Show will take place August 28-31 and expects 30,000 in attendance and more than 550 international dealers, according to the official Web site promoting the 28th installment of the summer event. Following on the heels of the American Numismatic Association’s event in the same convention center, the antiques show will include an Antiquarian Book Fair, fine art, furniture, porcelain, silver, American folk art, home accoutrements, jewelry, furniture, glass and textiles. Among the highlights is a lecture series from renowned experts in the fields of silver, jewelry and antiquities.

My favorite antiques and collectibles tell a story. It’s been my experience that unearthing the story is more rewarding than the challenge of obtaining the item. My most recent “story” began at the Hastings, Nebraska military collectibles show in March 2008. I had just set up my dealer table and started walking the floor to see what other dealers brought to sell. A fellow Omaha dealer was loading a garment rack with several US WWII uniforms, so I walked over to take a look.

My eyes were drawn to a green wool USMC blouse and trousers with a 6th Marine Division patch, corporal chevrons, an honorable discharge patch, and matching EGA (Eagle, Globe, and Anchor) collar devices. I looked inside the blouse to discover an unusual name penned inside the shoulder (where size and date are marked on WWII USMC uniforms). The dealer had no information about the veteran, nor did he recall how he acquired the uniform, but he was sure it was a local find.

We agreed on a price, and I walked away with the uniform and a gut feeling that I was going to find information about this soldier. When I returned from the show, I began my research and quickly discovered the veteran was born in Grinnell, Iowa and had attended college at Grinnell University. After college, he entered the Marines and later became an editorial writer for the Omaha World Herald newspaper.

I was on a roll! Further research revealed that he and his wife were living in a retirement community a few miles from my home and his children published a book in 2000 containing a large selection of their father’s World Herald editorials. The book was available at Amazon.com and the first chapter exclusively detailed his experiences as a Scout with H Company, 29th Marines, 6th Division during WWII. Before attempting to contact the veteran, I ordered a copy of his book and read every passage about his experiences being a Marine.

One story that is difficult to forget addresses the randomness of death and injury in combat. It explains how the veteran earned his Purple Heart Medal for a gunshot wound, while simultaneously losing a fellow Marine who had been lying beside him. The two Marines were ahead of their platoon scouting enemy movement on Sugar Loaf Hill (located on the island of Okinawa), when a Japanese machine gun crew flanked them and opened fire on their position. Had the Japanese flanked from the opposite direction fate may have reversed the outcome of these men.

After reading the book, I decided to call the veteran and our conversation went well. He was intrigued that I took the time to find him. After explaining my methodologies in locating him he proclaimed that, “I knew his whole life story.” With a laugh I replied, “That’s what happens when you publish a book about yourself!”

I asked about this uniform and apparently it was sold when he and his wife liquidated their house to move into a smaller apartment. After a nice talk over the phone, we agreed to meet in person. He was kind enough to offer me a copy of his discharge papers, military photos, as well as other ephemera from his days as a Marine to put with the uniform. I listened as he talked about Marine life, his career as a writer, and his family. Being the first generation in my family to finish college, I was amazed to hear the veteran’s father and grandfather had also graduated from college.

As I prepared to leave, I pulled my copy of his book from my bag and asked if he wouldn’t mind signing it. He smiled and wrote inside the cover, “To Chris: Best Wishes & Semper Fi!!” I thanked him for the sacrifices he made for our country and for taking the time to share his experiences with me. I am deeply honored to be the caretaker of his uniform and his stories.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

I’ve attended the KC Military Show for over a decade and I cannot think of a time where I left the venue empty handed. Admittedly, this time I tried my best not to purchase anything because I just bought a WWII 2nd Bn. Ranger uniform group and I did not want to test my wife’s generosity with more purchases this month. I got sidetracked from my plan when I peeked at Allan Henderson’s table and saw a beautiful Eisenhower D-Day letter with a price I could not pass up. I had to snatch that as well as a few small dollar items. The rest of my time was spent visiting with friends and watching them spend money.

The show had approximately 280 tables (50 less than last year). This should not have been a surprise considering gas prices and the economy in general. Despite the smaller turnout, there was plenty of very nice militaria for sale. My interest is primarily in WWII and Vietnam, so my observations have that bias. I noticed more high-end German headgear this year, as well as some nice US and Japanese headgear (see images). There were a lot of US medals and medal groups, but most were higher than market price in my opinion. I did not see many breathtaking uniform groups for sale, but my friend picked up a very nice 511th PIR group on Friday with Ike jacket, two shirts, two OS (Overseas) caps, and trousers. Later that night we ID’d the Airborne vet in NARA as well as other sources.

The show had other staple attractions including military vehicle displays and static impressions. I noticed an impressive table of German Lugers as well as several WWII USMC and Army uniform and equipment displays. There was also a table of veteran buffalo soldiers to hear stories from.

One unrelated highlight that I need to mention is that on Friday night I had the best barbecue in my life at Hillsdale Bank Barbecue (Street: 201 Frisco Hillsdale, KS 66036 Phone: (913) 783-4333). It’s outside Kansas City, but so worth the drive. I had a half rack of spare ribs, coleslaw, baked beans, and sweet potato fries. Their sauce is award winning KC style and the meat was smoked to perfection.

I am definitely planning on attending the KC Military Show and Hillsdale Barbecue next year!

KC Military Show Hours:
Friday 5pm – 9pm
Saturday 9am – 5pm
Sunday 9am – 3pm

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

While staying in Beijing, I made time to take a subway and visit the Chinese Military Museum. This spectacular building spans 60,000 square meters (196,850.39 square feet) and exhibits 5,000 years of Chinese military history on two four-story wings.

The first floor is devoted to the Second Revolutionary Civil War (1927-1937), the second floor to the War of Resistance Against Japan (1937-1945) and the third floor to the Third Revolutionary Civil War (1945-1949). All types of militaria are displayed from tanks and jet planes to swords, firearms, uniforms, flags, and photographs.

This museum is a place where a person interested in military history could easily spend days studying exhibits. However, I only had a few hours before having to leave and had to make good use of my time. My wife attended the museum with me. Afterward, I asked for her perspective as a person not very interested in military history. She was impressed by the enormity of everything. Its colossal scale displayed reverence for China’s military culture in a way that is uniquely different from our museums.

As a Westerner, the museum was not difficult to navigate. All the signs were in Chinese and English and it was far from crowded.

Several observations were made while working my way through the exhibits:

1. There were a lot of captured Japanese militaria including weapons, shin-gunto swords, uniform pieces, and equipment. The pieces ranged in rarity and condition. Most had the look of being captured in the field. Overall, these were some of my favorite things to look at.

2. There were very little US militaria (other than weapons) considering China fought against the US in the Korean War. I saw one ground dug M1 helmet and had been told that there were captured Sherman tanks. However, they must have been in the outdoor hanger that was closed off for winter.

3. Items were exhibited differently from US museums I’ve visited. In US museums, the ratio of items displayed is typically 10 percent exhibited and 90 percent in storage. US museums typically select unique representations of items to display then store duplicates. In the Chinese Military Museum, there were countless multiples of unattributed, identical items on display. This may have been done because there was no shortage of square footage and it contributes to the magnitude of the exhibit. Many common items were in relic, or ground dug condition, which was interesting to see because only rare or old items are displayed in that condition in US museums.

4. Lighting was nonexistent in places, which is unusual for a museum.

5. The souvenir shop actually sold militaria as well as books, posters, and other military related items. Most of these items can be had in the United States for the same price or less. Many of the militaria items were post Vietnam War era Chi-Com uniform pieces and field gear. Many of the reference books were interesting, but I could not find any in English.

The Chinese Military Museum is an economical way to spend an afternoon with admission being only 20 yuan (US$4.80).

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

As I loaded my car early Friday morning, I was relieved to see that it had only snowed an inch or so the night before. While I was in college, there were four consecutive years the Hastings Nebraska Militaria Show was canceled due to blizzard conditions. Show co-promoter Mike Bockman was beginning to think the Lord was trying to send him a message. Fortunately, we’ve been “blessed” with drivable conditions the last few years.

This year, I invited a friend and fellow history buff to travel with me and see what a militaria show entails. I typically make this drive alone. However, it was nice to share my tradition of seeing the flocks of sandhill cranes that fill the sky and bare fields every year when these protected birds stop their migratory path to rest in central Nebraska.

As I followed the highway, my mind raced with fantasies of new acquisitions for my collection. You never know what will turn up and I have never left Hastings without great items.

The show was well attended with approximately 120 tables, including several new dealers. There were also several nice uniform, weapon, and vehicle displays. I was so engrossed with militaria that I had to remind myself to eat and sit down periodically, so I could rest my legs from the hard slab concrete floors.

I am primarily a uniform collector and one of my favorite things I purchased this year is a WWII 6th Marine Division uniform. It did not have documentation or paperwork, but the name printed inside the blouse was unique. The dealer who sold it was local and I suspected the veteran was local too. So, I took a chance and bought it.

When I got home I began my research and immediately struck gold. I discovered the Marine was born in Grinnell, IA and had been an editorial writer for the Omaha World Herald. I also learned that he recently wrote a book based off his personal experiences (including being a Marine in WWII)! Lastly, I discovered he lives in a retirement community with his wife not far from my home. I’ve ordered a copy of his book and plan on contacting him after I read it.

Other items I purchased include a Vietnam era smoke grenade, several WWII patches and ribbon bars, a US WWII M1 helmet (front seam fixed bale with very early St Clair liner), a WWII silk-screened poster, and some books. A fellow collector showed me a camouflage M40 SS single decal helmet he purchased before I arrived on Friday. A dealer friend showed me a great WWII US M1 fixed bale helmet that walked into the show on Saturday. Even my friend who rode with me could not resist coming home with books, a WWII GI footlocker, and several US WWII patches. It seems like everyone came away with something.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

Read Chris’s articles.

I just got back from the 14th annual Fort Leavenworth Militaria Collectibles show located at the Frontier Conference Center. I have attended this event 5 or 6 times and enjoy making the drive. This show (like most) is an opportunity to meet up with collecting friends I only see once or twice a year and to network with dealers. Although I did not purchase anything this time, I met a dealer who has a uniform group I am seriously interested in and we are working out a deal. Had I not attended, I would have never met this individual or seen his amazing uniform group.

Early bird still gets the worm because two of my friends who live minutes from the show got in when doors opened and scored several nice pieces. One friend acquired the cleanest WWI USMC “bell crown” visor cap I have ever held! He also found a very clean WWII 4th Division USMC named uniform for a fraction of current market value. My other friend found handfuls of nice vintage patches for super prices. Admittedly, I did not spend any time digging through boxes and tubs this year, but I am confident I would have found stuff to take home if I would have actually hunted.

I met with Jerry Brown, the show promoter and he said there were 90 tables this year, which is about the same number they have every year I attend. This show attracts not only militaria collectors, but reenactors dressed in their regalia, military vehicle enthusiasts, and military personnel from the base.

I had a great time this year and I plan on making it out again in 2009.

Chris Hughes is a WorthPoint Worthologist specializing in 20th century militaria and the owner of Rally Point Militaria and Vietnam Uniform – Military Collectibles sites.

Read Chris’s articles.

During the First World War flight was in it’s infancy. Many people had only read about airplanes and the many new inventions relating to flight. New aviation inventions were develped by Germany, France Great Briton, Italy, Austria-Hungary Russia and the U.S. Airplanes at the begining of the war were used mainly for reconnaissance of the enemies supply lines and trench forifications. As the war progressed machine guns were added to airplanes as a defense against attack by other airplanes. These airplanes were made of wood frame with a stretched canvas cover. The pilot had a couple of instrument gauges for gas and altitude and not much else. The pilot’s position in the plane had no armor for his protection and no parachute. His seat was usually on top of the gas tank. The pilot usually worn leather pants, and coat with a scarf and a leather helmet padded with cork or other material to protect against the cold and a crash landing. The helmet shown here is a German World War One helmet made of cork and leather with dust goggles. The large ridge on the helmet’s crown and around the edge gives some added protection in the event of a crash landing. This helmet is valued at $1200 to $1600.00 and is considered rare by collectors. Many pilots were killed when their planes were shot down in flames and crashed having no way to escape from the burning plane. After the war many safety features like armor around the pilot’s seat and parachutes were developed and used due to the high loss of pilots during the First World War. It makes one wonder what made these young men volunteer for flight school and then enter into combat high over the trenches on a wing and a prayer.

I came into possession of two pins or badges that I inherited from a relative’s estate. They were acquired in England sometime during World War Two. Any information that anyone may have concerning these would be appreciated.

The first is a cross-shaped badge (about 3″ across) that is gold plated or enameled, has colored gems or glass on the wings of the cross, and has a circular center bearing the busts of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. The inscription around the busts reads in latin, “Victoria Regina Magnae Britanniae Albertus Dux Saxoniae.” On the obverse side, there is a depiction of a male and female couple seated in a chariot being pulled by what appear to be two angels. Also, there are two angels above the couple holding circular objects (perhaps wreaths or crowns?). Around this depiction there are words that say, “Felices Quos Jungit Amor” and “Die X.M. February MDCCCXI” Last statement is somewhat faded.

Second item is a brooch or pin that bears a coat of arms featuring a lion on the left and either a horse or salamander (can’t really tell which) on right, a shield in the center that says “Honni Soit Qui Mal Y Pense” (Supposed to be an Order of the Garter motto), a crown atop the shield and some words inscribed below the shield (which are somewhat faded) — “Dieuet Mon Droit” The words are faded in that phrase, so that’s what I can best make out. The coat of arms is mounted on a circular, black background, and from the outer perimeter of the circle there protrudes a number of alternating short and long gold spikes, giving the whole badge the appearance of a sun with rays.

If anyone has any ideas as to what these items may be, I would appreciate your help. Photos of these items are posted on the worthpoint website.

At the start of World War II, equipment issued to troops by the Japanese Army typically was based on European designs. As the war progressed, material shortages became extreme and the Japanese took many measures to minimize the use of metal in any form. Metal features such as buckles on packs, helmets and other equipment were replaced by cloth or rubberized leather.

The Army officer’s frame pack shown here is an early war issue of a German design. It features metal roller buckles and rivets. The interior is lined with canvas and has the previous owner’s name (Hiroshi Zaki) painted inside the flap. The pack’s construction and workmanship is of high quality, in stark contrast to later mass production versions made of thin canvas sewn with cloth tie closures.

The approximate value of this item is $275-$350. Packs and other equipment for officers are of higher quality than equipment for enlisted personnel.

United States Army Captain Robert L. Queissner of the Fifth Ohio Infantry was proud of his two sons. They, like him, were serving in the military during World War I, most likely overseas. To honor their commitment in service, he designed a simple small banner in 1917 that showed two blue stars on a white background and displayed it at home.

Others in Ohio quietly noticed the banner and adopted a form of it as well to honor their family members serving in World War I. A member of Congress from Ohio, the story goes without identifying the Member, mentioned the Sons in Service banner as it was called, on the floor of the House of Representatives on September 9, 1917 this way:

“The mayor of Cleveland, the Chamber of Commerce and the Governor of Ohio have adopted this service flag. The world should know of those who give so much for liberty. The dearest thing in all the world to a father and mother — their children.”

With that, President Woodrow Wilson formally recognized the banner in early 1918 and called it the Service Flag with one addition. When a serviceman had given the ultimate sacrifice in times of war, a gold star would be superimposed on the blue, leaving just a thin blue border.

By 1928, the Gold Star Mothers became a service organization dedicated to assisting the family of service members killed in action. The gold star placed over a blue star on the service banner proudly displays the family’s service.

Although active in service for many years, like the gold star mothers before them, the Blue Star Mothers was founded as an additional service organization in 1942 to help those families with sons in active service.

By this time the use of the Service flag was so widespread that the Department of Defense codified the design, the manufacture of the banner and the proper way to display it at home or business. In short, the banner should always be displayed indoors in a front window. If a U.S. flag is added it should be placed above the service flag. The proper way to display the gold star is always above the blue ones.

The Vietnam War so so unpopular at home that the service banner wasn’t used regularly. However, by the Gulf War in 1991 and subsequent conflicts, the service banner has been steadily gaining favor and making it back into America’s consciousness once again as a symbol of national service.

Genevieve “Sugar” Mulvaney actually wrote a song about the Service Banner in 1945 called “There’s a Star in My Window For You.”

Your family may qualify for a Service Banner. Contact the following organizations for help and assistance:

The American Gold Star Mothers: http://www.goldstarmoms.com/index.htm

The Blue Star Mothers of America:

http://www.bluestarmothers.org/

The U.S. military, like any military around the world, identifies its military specialties by uniquely designed patches, ribbons, badges, pins and other items.

Below are the general staff and higher rank collar insignia as described by the U.S. Army Institute of Heraldry:

President of the United States: A blue shield bearing a circle of 13 white stars supporting a gold eagle displayed, wings inverted, 1 1/4 inch height overall. Prior to 1946, there was no prescribed insignia for Aides to the President of the United States. In 1946, an insignia was adopted — 48 stars in a ring on a shield surmounted by an eagle. This design was changed in 1953 to 13 white stars on a blue shield surmounted by an eagle.

Vice President of the United States: A white shield bearing a circle of 13 blue stars supporting a gold eagle displayed, wings inverted, 1 1/4 inch height overall. The insignia for Aides to the Vice President of the United States was approved on 24 January 1969.

The Secretary of Defense: On a blue shield, 3/4 inches in height, surmounted by a gold color eagle displayed with wings reversed ½ inch in height, three crossed arrows in gold color between four white enameled stars (two and two).

The insignia for Aides to the Secretary of Defense was approved in August 1948. The three crossed arrows are of the style on the Department of Defense Seal. Four stars are commonly used on positional flags for secretarial level positions.

The Secretary of the Army: A red shield surmounted by the Coat of Arms of the United States in gold between four white enameled stars, supporting a gold eagle displayed, wings inverted, 1 1/4 inch height overall. The insignia for aides to the Secretary of the Army was prescribed in Army Regulations of 1948.

Under Secretary of the Army: A white shield surmounted by the Coat of Arms of the United States in gold between four red enameled stars, supporting a gold eagle displayed, wings inverted, 1 1/4 inch height overall. The insignia for aides to the Under Secretary of the Army was approved in 1962.

Chief of Staff of the Army: A shield 3/4 inch in height divided from lower left to upper right, the upper part red and the lower part white, a silver five-pointed star surmounted by the coat of arms of the United States in gold, between two white five-pointed stars at the top and two red five-pointed stars in base, with a gold color eagle with wings reversed, ½ inch in height, placed above the shield.

Vice Chief of Staff of the Army: A shield 3/4 inch in height divided saltirewise, the upper and lower part white and each side red, a silver five-pointed star surmounted by the coat of army of the United States in gold, between two red stars at the top and two red stars at the bottom, with a gold color eagle with wings reversed ½ inch in height place above the shield.

Prior to 1963, Aides to the Chief of Staff wore the same insignia as aides to other generals. On 25 April 1963, the present design of insignia for aide to the Chief of Staff was approved. Aides to the Vice-Chief continued to wear the same insignia as aides to other generals. On 10 June 1987, the insignia for aide to the Vice Chief of Staff was approved.

Joint Chiefs of Staff: Aide to Chairman: On a shield, 3/4 inch in height divided diagonally from upper left to lower right, the upper part blue and the lower part white, a gold color eagle between two white five pointed stars at the top and two blue five pointed stars at the base, with a gold color metal eagle displayed with wings reversed ½ inch in height placed above the shield.

Aide to Vice Chairman: On a white white shield 3/4 inch in height divided diagonally with a blue center stripe from upper left to lower right, a gold color metal eagle between two five pointed stars at the top and two five pointed stars at the base (blue star on white and white star on blue), with a gold color metal eagle with wings reversed, ½ inch in height, placed above the shield.

The eagle on the shield is of the design of the eagle on the Department of the Defense seal. The background colors are the same as the flag designs for the positions. Light blue is the color normally associated with Department of Defense

General of the Army: A blue shield, 3/4 inch in height, with five white stars arranged in a circle, inner points touching, surmounted above by a gold color eagle displayed with wings reversed ½ inch in height. The insignia for Aides to General of the Army was approved on 15 January 1945.

There were 5 modern day Generals of the Army; Omar Bradley, Douglas McArthur, George C. Marshall, Dwight Eisenhower, and Henry ‘Hap’ Arnold. A predecessor rank of General of the Army had four stars, then two stars with an eagle in between created in 1866 for Ulysses S. Grant, but retired in 1888. No officers currently hold the rank of General of the Army.

General Staff: A shield, ¾ inch in height surmounted by a gold color eagle displayed with wings reversed ½ inch in height; the chief of the shield is blue with silver stars reflecting the grade of the general officer the aide is serving, and 13 vertical stripes, 7 silver and 6 red. The insignia was approved in 1902.