Collecting Militaria / Military Antiques in Australia
Collecting militaria and military antiques in Australia is a popular hobby among history enthusiasts and military veterans. From uniforms and medals to weapons and equipment, military antiques offer a tangible connection to the past and a glimpse into the lives of those who served their country.
Amongst the most sought-after items in Australian militaria collecting are helmets, bayonets, badges and medals. Items that can easily be displayed in a man cave. Rarer and larger items such as military vehicles and larger ordnance also have popularity, but the space and budget are required to accommodate them.
Another popular range is military medals and awards. Collectors are always on the lookout for rare and unusual medals to add to their collections from both the Australian military perspective, and those of allies and defeated enemies. Some of the most sought-after medals include WW1 Medal groupings and German Iron Cross Awards of both WW1 and WW2.
Weapons and equipment from military history are also popular collectibles. From rifles and pistols to machine guns, collectors can find a wide range of military weaponry from different eras and conflicts, providing they have the right licenses. Our non-firing replica guns from Denix are great alternatives to the real thing as they look the same, but are safe and require no license in QLD and WA (permits and exemptions can be obtained in other states).
World War II-era badges, uniforms and equipment are particularly sought-after, as they offer a glimpse into one of the most significant periods in Australian military history. Items from defeated former foes such as Nazi Germany (helmets, daggers and awards being top of the list) and Imperial Japan (veteran bring back Samurai Swords are a sought after item) to name a few, feature heavily in many public and private collections.
Military antiques can be found in a variety of places in Australia, from wesbites like ours, antique shops and auction houses to online marketplaces and specialized military antique dealers. Some collectors also attend military fairs and shows to meet other enthusiasts and find rare items to add to their collections.
However, collecting militaria and military antiques in Australia is not without its challenges. One of the biggest issues facing collectors now is the increasing proliferation of fake items and reproductions. Fakes can be so well aged now, and older fakes are starting to have genuine wear and age also.
With the high demand for military antiques, unscrupulous sellers may try to pass off fake or replica items as genuine artifacts. It is essential for collectors to do their research and ensure that they are purchasing authentic items from reputable sellers with money back assurances (as Sabre does).
Another challenge is the legality of certain items. Some weapons and equipment may be classified as prohibited or restricted, and collectors must be aware of the regulations surrounding the possession and sale of these items. It is also important to remember that military antiques represent a significant part of Australia's history, and collectors should treat them with respect and care.
In conclusion, collecting militaria and military antiques in Australia is a fascinating and rewarding hobby for those interested in history and the military. With a wide range of items available and a vibrant community of collectors, there is always something new to discover and learn. However, it is essential to approach collecting with care and caution, and to ensure that items are authentic and legal before making a purchase.