Many individuals choose to keep a specific collection of military medals and awards. One of the most sought-after options are medals from those of the Second World War (WW2). The reasons for this vary. A lot of people have relatives who fought during the conflict. Some appreciate the stories of heroes in the background of medals. However many World War II medals are made in large quantities and are therefore more accessible in the present. If you’re considering starting your own WW2 medals and awards collection, we’ve collected some details that could be handy.
What are the most popular World War II Campaign Awards?
There are a variety of awards from that World War II period that are very popular with collectors. For those who are just beginning collecting, campaign medals are the best choice due to their higher numbers. The most sought-after British WW2 medals include the 1939-1945 Star as well as the Atlantic Star, and the Defence Medal. from the United States, the American Defense Service Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal and the World War I Victory Medal as well as other medals. Other collectible allied medals include the Russian/USSR medal to commemorate the Capture of Berlin, Medal for the Defence of Leningrad as well as the French 1939-1945 Commemorative war medal. Medals like that of the 1939-1945 Star and the War Medal were issued to the vast majority of soldiers and therefore aren’t particularly valued in terms of price. However, that doesn’t mean that they’re not sought-after. Due to their low cost and greater numbers, they’re an ideal starting point for anyone who wants to start collecting.
Campaign Medals of the Allies
Collects of Popular Interest: British Campaign Stars
The British Government was able to issue eleven WW2 badges to commemorate participation in the war and nine of them were campaign star. They are a fantastic collection since these medals are quite easy to find.
The British Campaign Stars were issued between 1939 and 1945. They were awarded for their participation in the conflict. For instance The Air Crew Europe Star was given to two consecutive months of flying in operational conditions. This Arctic Star commemorates the Arctic convoys that traveled to northern Russia. It was the Burma Star was awarded for at least one day of operational duty during the Burma campaign. The France along with the Germany Star was awarded to those who performed operations in France and Germany. Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg or Germany between D-Day and the surrender of Germany.
German Medals & Militaria Collections
German awards (from those from the Interwar as well as the WW2 period) tend to be more expensive and hard to locate as compared to American, French, or British medals. The cost is higher for German World War II medals could range between $30 and $200,000 dependent on the condition and importance of the person who owned the medal originally. Contrary to what non-collectors think those who buy these items include museums, university professors and individuals who wish to save this type of historical material for the next generation and learn from it. The main thing to keep in mind when deciding to acquire German Medals, awards and other items is that there is numerous reproductions as well as counterfeit insignia.