CIVIL WAR COLLECTING

 

The range of collecting Civil War memorabilia and artifacts is almost endless – from relics dug from the ground to belt buckles, leather goods, letters and diaries, firearms and edged weapons, or items belonging to Lee or Jackson or Grant.  Sources include private parties (including other collectors or descendants of soldiers), exhibits and shows, and auctions.  Knowledge is of the essence and proven provenance of an item is paramount – counterfeit relics are widespread, particularly higher-end items.  There are few areas where “Buyer Beware!” is more true, including, even, reputable sources, who can sometimes, also, be fooled.

 

For those just starting out, perusing museum displays is probably a good first step to get oneself educated on the breadth of collecting.  Afterwards, exhibits, shows, and auctions will introduce one to the realities of the cost of the Civil War Collecting hobby.

 

Below are links to several representative collecting sources.  Also listed are representative Civil War related publications whose advertisers include a variety of artifact sources – reputable and, potentially, otherwise.

 


Called by many "The Collector's Bible", The Civil War Collector's Price Guide is an indespensible aid for both beginner and expert collectors.  Entries include item details and price ranges for most Civil War collectibles, including Autographs, Buckles, Clothing, Guns, Jars, Knives, Money, Pistols, Bayonets, Swords and other relics.   It is available at book stores and on Amazon.com.