<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Military Collector Services | Military Collector Services</title> <atom:link href="https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/author/jason/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com</link> <description>War Collectibles in Webb City, MO</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 21 Mar 2024 21:47:07 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2</generator> <image> <url>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/fav.png</url> <title>Military Collector Services | Military Collector Services</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>A Fascinating Collection of M44 Field Blouses</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2024/03/20/a-fascinating-collection-of-m44-field-blouses/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 Mar 2024 13:00:53 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Memorabilia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German Field Blouse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German WW2 Army Uniforms]]></category> <category><![CDATA[M44 Field Blouse]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=847</guid> <description><![CDATA[German Field Blouse: Early Model 44 Field Blouse Now I would like to discuss several examples that I have in my collection of M44 Field Blouses. First, we have an early made example. These uniforms are so interesting because they have a combination of different linings and insignia. Left Image: The […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>German Field Blouse: Early Model 44 Field Blouse</h2> <p>Now I would like to discuss several examples that I have in my collection of M44 Field Blouses. First, we have an early made example. These uniforms are so interesting because they have a combination of different linings and insignia.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-852" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/M44-Field-Blouse-225x300.png" alt="M44 Field Blouse" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-853" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/M44-Field-Blouse-backside-1-225x300.png" alt="M44 Field Blouse backside" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-850" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/M44-Field-Blouse-inside-details-225x300.png" alt="M44 Field Blouse inside details" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong> Left Image:</strong> The reasons I believe that this is an early made example of a M44 Field Blouse. Notice it has the late model triangular eagle and mouse grey collar patches. <strong>Middle Image:</strong> Here one can see the simplified back made from one piece of material and the one circular eyelet for belt support. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This picture illustrates the thin lining material used on these jackets and the fonts of the size numbering.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-851" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/M44-Field-Blouse-inside-300x225.png" alt="M44 Field Blouse inside" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-849" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/M44-Field-Blouse-details-300x226.png" alt="M44 Field Blouse details" width="300" height="226" /></p> <p><em><strong> Left Image:</strong> One of the reasons that I believe that this is an early model is that all of the lining material was cut from the same lining cloth. On many of the later examples one can see different small pieces of lining material that was pressed into use. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This has straight pocket flaps on simple patch pockets.</em></p> <h2>German Field Blouse: Tailored Infantry Lieutenant</h2> <p>The second jacket I believe is a much later example. This one has been tailored for use by an Infantry Lieutenant. I have seen examples of this jacket used by junior officers but rarely were these worn by staff officers. The photo of General von Schwerin wearing a modified Model 44 field blouse is certainly the exception to the rule. Most senior officers had served long enough that they had several uniforms and did not have to source a new uniform in the closing days of the Third Reich.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-856" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-WW2-Army-Uniform-254x300.png" alt="German WW2 Army Uniform" width="254" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Image:</strong> This example has been reworked by a Tailor shop. The pockets have been modified to add a more stylish look. The waistband has been shortened and there is only one button instead of the standard two. The cuffs lack the adjustment feature.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-855" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-WW2-Army-Uniform-inside-300x225.png" alt="German WW2 Army Uniform inside" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-854" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-WW2-Army-Uniform-Details-300x225.png" alt="German WW2 Army Uniform Details" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong> Left Image:</strong> This jacket does not have the two inner pockets. The two pieces of lining material were added to give strength to the wool material supporting the pockets. There is also no provision for the belt supports. Evidently the Officer did not intend to use the standard Enlisted Man’s field equipment. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This one has a different lining pattern. Notice how the collar was lined to provide additional comfort to the neck and the inferior quality of the lining shows a great deal of wear in comparison to the rest of the jacket.</em></p> <h2>German Field Blouse: Original Factory Label and Unique Coloration</h2> <p>This next Model 44 has a couple of interesting features. It has the original factory label, and the eagle is a standard Model 40 example that has been folded and sewn in the triangular pattern.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-859" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-WW2-Army-Uniform-factory-tag-225x300.png" alt="German WW2 Army Uniform factory tag" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Image: </strong>It is rare to find the factory label on an uniform.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-858" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Brown-German-WW2-Army-Uniform-300x225.png" alt="Brown German WW2 Army Uniform" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-857" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Brown-German-WW2-Army-Uniform-backside-300x225.png" alt="Brown German WW2 Army Uniform backside" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong> Left Image:</strong> The color of Model 44 Field Blouse varied greatly. This one appears to have more of a brown shade than the others. The label is from a factory in Pfarrkirchen which I believe is in Bavaria. A LAGO is a consortium of different factories in a geographical area. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This jacket has a two piece back. It also shows the belt support hooks for the equipment belt.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-865" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Brown-German-WW2-Army-Uniform-inside-details-225x300.png" alt="" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-866" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Brown-German-WW2-Army-Uniform-inside-300x225.png" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong> Left Image:</strong> Like many Model 44 jackets this one uses two different types of lining. Late in the war factories used whatever materials they had on hand. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This jacket has a tan lining material that was left over from the production of tropical uniforms.</em></p> <h2>German Field Blouse: Unique</h2> <p>The last example is a last-ditch example that was actually worn by a Soldier. It breaks many of the rules I have discussed above and illustrates the desperation that the Germans felt as their world collapsed around them. Examples like this one make the collecting of Model 44 Field Blouses a fascinating hobby.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-863" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-Field-Blouse-225x300.png" alt="German Field Blouse" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-860" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-Field-Blouse-button-details-225x300.png" alt="German Field Blouse button details" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong> Left Image:</strong> How many irregularities can you count? The pocket flaps are different and have early horn buttons for closures. It has a hidden three-button front and does not close at the neck. It has a narrow waistband (much like the British Battle Dress Uniform) with a single button closure. The eagle is an earlier pattern and was sewn directly to the front of the jacket before the lining was added. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This photo shows the hidden, three-button front and the strange closure strap. This jacket is probably one of a kind.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-862" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-Field-Blouse-inside-300x225.png" alt="German Field Blouse inside" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-861" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-Field-Blouse-details-300x225.png" alt="German Field Blouse details" width="300" height="225" /><em><strong> </strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> This jacket has four different types of lining material. None of the buttons match and parts of the jacket were made from whatever the factory had on hand. <strong>Right Image:</strong> The shoulder straps were sewn directly into the shoulder seams.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Uniforms and Traditions of the German Army: M44 Field Blouse</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2024/03/13/uniforms-and-traditions-of-the-german-army-m44-field-blouse/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 13 Mar 2024 13:00:30 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military History]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Memorabilia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[british army battle dress blouse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[german army field blouse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German Army Uniforms and Insignia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German Field Blouse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German Service Uniform]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German WW2 Army Uniforms]]></category> <category><![CDATA[M44 Field Blouse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uniforms and Traditions of the German Army]]></category> <category><![CDATA[waffen-felbluse]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Waffenfarbe]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Waffenfarbe piping]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ww2 german waffenfarbe]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=839</guid> <description><![CDATA[Today, I would like to dive into the German WW2 Army Uniforms, focusing on a specific German Field Service Tunic – the German Model 44 Field Blouse. The following information comes from German Army Uniforms and Insignia 1933-1945 by Brian L. Davis. The pressure of economic war conditions against Germany resulted in the introduction, on […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Today, I would like to dive into the German WW2 Army Uniforms, focusing on a specific German Field Service Tunic – the German Model 44 Field Blouse. The following information comes from German Army Uniforms and Insignia 1933-1945 by Brian L. Davis. The pressure of economic war conditions against Germany resulted in the introduction, on 25th September 1944, of an entirely new style of Field Service Tunic – the Model 1944 (or M44) Field Blouse. This was a complete break with the German Army uniform tradition in so far as it was a new form of uniform jacket. The newly adopted style, which for all its radical design was similar to the British Army Battle Dress Blouse, did not retain any of the features of styling normally associated with the traditional German Service Uniform.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-840" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/German-WW2-Army-Uniforms-M44-Field-Uniform-150x300.jpg" alt="German WW2 Army Uniforms - M44 Field Uniform" width="150" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong> Image:</strong> The M44 Field Uniform. The ‘Felbluse’ was distinctive for its two unpleated breast pockets, wide waistband, and lack of ‘skirt’ to the jacket.</em></p> <p>The color of this new uniform was more slate grey-green than field-grey and the most noticeable feature of the Field Blouse was the replacement of the jacket skirt with a waistband of 12 cm deep. Due to the lack of a skirt on the jacket, only two patch pockets were worn, both on the chest. Each was without pleats and each had a simple straight-edged pocket flap. The collar of the jacket was normally worn open, but it had provision to be closed. There were six metal buttons worn down the front, the lower two being positioned on the waistband. The cuffs were like the normal other ranks quality Service Tunics cut in such a way so they could be gathered in and buttoned to fit more closely around the wearer’s wrists. The back of the tunic was made from one unseamed piece of material. Metal belt hooks were used to hold up the belt and to help support the wearer’s equipment, the normal triple belt hook positions were reduced to only one position. There were two inside breast pockets, each closed with a single fiber button, but there was no field dressing pocket inside the blouse.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-841" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/economy-pattern-insignia-used-on-the-Modell-44-Field-Blouse-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong> Image:</strong> 16-year old Grenadier Joseph Voss taken prisoner defending the German town of Lemgo. Clearly shown is the ‘economy’ pattern insignia used on the Modell 44 Field Blouse. The triangular National Emblem and the simplified mouse grey collar patches.</em></p> <p>Normal shoulder straps of the wearer’s rank and his Waffenfarbe piping (the coloring system of uniform adornments to display rank and military unit) were worn, sometimes made from the same material as the jacket but often older pattern straps were worn. The collar was of the same material and color as the blouse and the late pattern mouse-grey collar patches were worn that did not show the wearer’s Waffenfarbe.</p> <p>The M44 Field Blouse was issued to all ranks both in the German Army and the Waffen-SS (with the exception of Panzer crews) to be worn when existing stocks of the old Model 36, 41,42 and 43 patterns were exhausted. Non-commissioned officers did not normally wear any rank braid sewn around the edge of the collar, the only indication of rank being the shoulder straps. Generals, however, were permitted to wear their normal rank insignia including collar patches. In a future blog, I shall discuss more about the Model 44 uniforms</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-843" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Tailor-made-example-of-the-M44-Field-Blouse-185x300.jpg" alt="Tailor made example of the M44 Field Blouse" width="185" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong> Image:</strong> Generalleutenant Graf von Schwerin, holder of the Knight’s Cross with Oakleaves and Swords, commanding Officer of the 76th Panzer Corps. Is shown wearing a Tailor made example of the M44 Field Blouse.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Military Collectors Show 2023: Leavenworth Military Show</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2024/01/03/military-collectors-show-2023-leavenworth-military-show/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 03 Jan 2024 14:00:27 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Trade Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[german army jacket wwii]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Leavenworth Military Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[militaria collectors]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Collectors]]></category> <category><![CDATA[military collectors show 2023]]></category> <category><![CDATA[p38 holster]]></category> <category><![CDATA[pullman place family restaurant]]></category> <category><![CDATA[riverfront community center leavenworth ks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[world war 2 pistol holsters]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ww2 holster]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wwii british army dress uniform]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wwii british uniform]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=827</guid> <description><![CDATA[November is always a hectic month for me. This month I attended three shows on the first three weekends of the month and the Tulsa Flea Market on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. I last attended the Overlooked Military Show in Leavenworth, Kansas. This show is different from most shows as it is a two-day show. […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>November is always a hectic month for me. This month I attended three shows on the first three weekends of the month and the Tulsa Flea Market on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. I last attended the Overlooked Military Show in Leavenworth, Kansas. This show is different from most shows as it is a two-day show. Set-up is Friday afternoon, and the show is finished at three o’clock on Saturday afternoon. This is a new show format, and it has a couple of advantages over the traditional three-day show. In the internet age, people are busy. It is difficult for a show promoter to keep all of the vendors for that slow Sunday when everyone has so much to do. The two-day venue also creates a sense of urgency in the buying public and there is less time to think about what to buy. For those of you who have never been to Leavenworth, KS it is well worth the 185-mile trip. Make sure to make time to visit Fort Leavenworth and visit the Museum and National Cemetery.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-834" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/riverfront-community-center-leavenworth-ks--300x225.png" alt="riverfront community center leavenworth ks" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-828" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Leavenworth-Military-Show-225x300.png" alt="Leavenworth Military Show Signage" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The show is held in the old Train Station that has been converted into a multi-use facility and sits in front of the still-used train track just behind this building. A little further away flows the Missouri River. Congress instructed Colonel Henry Leavenworth to build the fort on the Missouri side of the river. When he arrived at the site, he ignored their advice and located the post on the high ground on the Kansas side. In the 1820’s this was the frontier. A military road was built to connect Fort Leavenworth to Fort Scott to support law and order by separating the settlers from the Indians. <strong>Right Image: </strong>The show is sponsored by Jason Claire who also owns the Overlooked Military & Antique shop in downtown Leavenworth.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-831" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Leavenworth-High-School-Junior-ROTC-Color-Guard-and-Rifle-Team-300x225.png" alt="Leavenworth High School Junior ROTC Color Guard and Rifle Team" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-832" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Leavenworth-Military-Show-Vendors-300x225.png" alt="Leavenworth Military Show Vendors" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The show was supported by the Leavenworth High School Junior ROTC Color Guard and Rifle Team. The Cadets ran a shooting range and the Concessions Booth that provided food and drink for the show. All profits were used to support Cadet activities. <strong>Right Image: </strong>A photo of some of the 120 tables of Militaria in the show. Most of the sellers are also collectors and offered a nice selection of items. </em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-833" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/pullman-place-family-restaurant--225x300.png" alt="pullman place family restaurant" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong> Image:</strong> A couple of blocks from the show is the Pullman Place Restaurant. The Pullman features a railway station motif. When I was stationed in Leavenworth at the Command and Staff College my staff group would routinely meet at the Pullman where we discussed our lesson over breakfast</em></p> <h2>Military Memorabilia Finds: German Army Jacket WWII</h2> <p>I was able to pick up a couple of nice items. First was a WWII German Model 1944 short jacket. This jacket was introduced in September 1944 as an economy model and is very similar to the WWII British Battle Dress Uniform.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-830" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/german-army-jacket-wwii--225x300.png" alt="german army jacket wwii" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-829" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/another-german-army-jacket-wwii--300x225.png" alt="another german army jacket wwii" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> This one has a very nice Field Grey color some of the later ones have more of a brown tint. It had been poorly restored with incorrect insignia. When I got it home I took off the insignia and am working on taking off the glue that attached the breast eagle. <strong>Right Image:</strong> This is an early model jacket with an interior lining made from the same bolt of material. Later examples often have linings of different types of material that were left over from previous uniform construction. The Germans had acute shortages of most textiles and went to great lengths to find substitute materials.</em></p> <h2>Military Memorabilia Finds: WW2 Holster – P38 Holster</h2> <p>I also purchased a late-war P-38 black leather holster. The earlier model holster was made from a thicker piece of leather and was molded. This soft-shell holster was another economical solution to save resources.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-837" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ww2-holster-p38-holster-front-300x225.png" alt="ww2 holster- p38 holster front" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-835" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ww2-holster-p38-holster-back-300x225.png" alt="ww2 holster- p38 holster back" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-836" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/ww2-holster-p38-holster-details-300x225.png" alt="ww2 holster- p38 holster details" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> It is made from pigskin leather. Many field gear items were made from this type of leather. <strong>Middle Image:</strong> The back of the holster is marked for the pistol it was designed to fit. It has two belt loops that allow it to be carried on the black leather equipment belt. <strong>Right Image:</strong> Most are marked with a three-letter code that identifies the company that produced it. It is also marked with a Waffenamt or an armed forces acceptance stamp. The stamp is marked with an eagle and the letters WaA followed by a three-digit number that identifies the team of inspectors that worked a geographical area.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Aquiring Unique Military Items at the Wannemacher Gun Show</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/12/20/aquiring-unique-military-items-at-the-wannemacher-gun-show/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 20 Dec 2023 14:00:53 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Trade Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[79th Infantry Division]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Karl Burgsmuller]]></category> <category><![CDATA[NPEA Dagger]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Tulsa Exposition Center]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wannamacher Gun Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wannemacher Gun Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wannemacher gun show 2023]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wannemacher gun show tulsa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wwii german cross]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wwii german cross badge]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wwii german knight cross]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=808</guid> <description><![CDATA[On 10,11 and 12 November, I attended the Wannemacher Gunshow at the Tulsa Exposition Center. This show is advertised as the largest gun show in the world with around 4,000 vendor tables. This show has been promoted by Joe Wannamacher since the late 1950’s. After Joe passed away several years ago, his family has continued […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On 10,11 and 12 November, I attended the Wannemacher Gunshow at the Tulsa Exposition Center. This show is advertised as the largest gun show in the world with around 4,000 vendor tables. This show has been promoted by Joe Wannamacher since the late 1950’s. After Joe passed away several years ago, his family has continued this tradition. I have been attending this show off-and-on since the mid-1970s. In those days, it was the show that you saved your money for as there were so many great military items being offered for great prices.</p> <p>I often say this is the most difficult show that I attend. It is challenging because the cost of the tables is $200 each. So, I am over $500 in the hole before I sell anything. I agonize over what merchandise I should bring but realize that I do not sell anything there that I do not sell at every other show. Over the years, we have witnessed many dealers that attend the show. However, after attending a couple of times, realize that they cannot drive the distance, pay the high table fees, and make any money. So, the tables routinely turn over. The reason I go is that there are over ten thousand people that attend and they sometimes bring unique items that they are looking to sell. My goal is to set-up a nice display of original military items that attract other quality military items. This time I had great success in attracting many great items.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-821" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WWII-German-Knight-Cross-Front-225x300.png" alt="WWII German Knight Cross Front" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-820" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WWII-German-Knight-Cross-BAck-225x300.png" alt="WWII German Knight Cross BAck" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-815" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/9th-Infantry-Division-Military-Memorabilia-225x300.png" alt="79th Infantry Division Military Memorabilia" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> A rare and desirable WWII German Knights Cross. This example was either made by Juncker or Klein & Quenzer. <strong>Middle Image: </strong>The cross and ring are marked 800 which is the mark for its silver content. <strong>Right Image: </strong>The KC came in an old Chesterfield Cigarette tin with some items that hint that these were brought back by a medic in the 79th Infantry Division.</em></p> <p>I have collected for over 40 years, and this is the first Knights Cross that I have been able to own. It was sold by a very nice gentleman who found it at a Metropolitain Tulsa Tag Sale. He also sold me a very rare National Socialist Political Education Academy (NPEA) Student Dagger. The NPEA school system provided political education to the future Third Reich Leadership. This is the first NPEA dagger that I have managed to own.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-819" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NPEA-Dagger-300x225.png" alt="NPEA Dagger" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-818" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NPEA-Dagger-handle-300x225.png" alt="NPEA Dagger handle" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The dagger is very similar to the SA and SS dagger and was copied by those worn during the Roman Empire. <strong>Right Image: </strong>The wooden handle does not have the SA/SS button or the national eagle.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-817" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NPEA-Dagger-Blade-300x225.png" alt="NPEA Dagger Blade" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-822" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/NPEA-Dagger-Blade-Details-2-300x225.png" alt="NPEA Dagger Blade Details 2" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The acid etched motto on the blade roughly translates into ” Be More Than You Appear to Be” a great goal for any school. <strong>Right Image: </strong>This dagger was made by several companies. Karl Burgsmuller had two different Trademarks one with Berlin and the other with Berlin and the Charlottenburg 5 address.</em></p> <p>There are several factors involved in creating success at this show. First, you have to pay the ante to sit at the table. Second, you must have the available capital to invest. Most importantly, you must have a good knowledge of the items being offered to know their value, as well as their authenticity.</p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Wichita Military Guns Collectables Show: Winter 2023</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/12/11/wichita-military-guns-collectables-show-winter-2023/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Mon, 11 Dec 2023 14:00:54 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Trade Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cessna activity center west wichita ks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[equipment of japanese soldier wwii]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gun militaria & collectables show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[japanese weapons wwii]]></category> <category><![CDATA[japanese wwii equipment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Collectables Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Collectors Club]]></category> <category><![CDATA[military gun show wichita ks]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Trade Show Calendar]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wichita Military Collectors Club]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Wichita Military Guns & Collectables Show]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=807</guid> <description><![CDATA[On November 3rd, 4th, and 5th I attended the Wichita Military Guns and Collectables Show at the Cessna Activity Center, 2744 S. George Washington Boulevard. For those of you that read this blog you know that I am a big supporter of this show, The was their best and biggest show in many years. Over […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>On November 3rd, 4th, and 5th I attended the Wichita Military Guns and Collectables Show at the Cessna Activity Center, 2744 S. George Washington Boulevard. For those of you that read this blog you know that I am a big supporter of this show, The was their best and biggest show in many years. Over 125 tables were sold, and many great items were offered to the public. The show is promoted by the Wichita Military Collectors Club and is conducted for the pleasure and enjoyment of their members.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-811" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Wichita-Military-Collectors-Club-Manager-225x300.png" alt="Wichita Military Collectors Club Manager" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-809" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/11th-Airborne-Division-Veteran-225x300.png" alt="11th Airborne Division Veteran" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> This is Shawn the show manager and Dave Billings proud owner of the US Army Jeep and Trailer that he displayed at this show. <strong>Right Image:</strong> Here is Cliff Dillard: Korean War Veteran and former Soldier of the 11th Airborne Division. Cliff represents one of the many Veteran’s Groups that attend the show to recruit other Veterans.</em></p> <p>In addition to military vehicles and Veteran’s Groups, the Club also sets up different displays of members’ collections.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-813" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WWII-Japanese-Weapons-300x225.png" alt="WWII Japanese Weapons" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-812" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/WWII-Japanese-Weapons-2-300x225.png" alt="WWII Japanese Weapons 2" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> A US WWII display of various fighting knives. <strong>Right Image:</strong> Here is a display of US Army Radios and vehicle Communications Equipment.</em></p> <p>There was also a large display of WWII Japanese Army Weapons and Equipment. The displays change every show and are one of the favorite attractions of the show.<br /> The show has a laid-back attitude and doesn’t use badges as everyone pretty much knows each other. Vendor tables are only $35 each, which is the lowest price of any show that I attend. If you are interested in buying or selling military collectibles this is an excellent way to expand your knowledge and learn about the hobby. The members welcome all levels of military collectors and are always willing to share their expertise and advice. The show is held twice a year in April and November and I have included the flier for the upcoming Spring Show. Hope to see you there!</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-810" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Wichita-Military-Collectors-Club-Flyer-768x1024.png" alt="Wichita Military Collectors Club Flyer" width="523" height="698" srcset="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Wichita-Military-Collectors-Club-Flyer-768x1024.png 523w, http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Wichita-Military-Collectors-Club-Flyer-480x640.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 523px, 100vw" /></p> <p><em><strong>Image:</strong> The flier for the Spring 2024 Show</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Anti-Partisan Badges: Examples of the 7 Different Types</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/11/29/anti-partisan-badges-examples-of-the-7-different-types/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 29 Nov 2023 14:00:14 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Memorabilia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anti-Partisan Badges]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Collectors]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WW2 Military Badges]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=785</guid> <description><![CDATA[Anti-Partisan Badge Creation Process As we mentioned briefly in the last blog, Anti-Partisan Badge (APB) has many versions depending on the creation process. Today, we’ll dive deeper into the details of the creation process, starting with the stamping methods. The hot stamping method negatively affects the precision and the forming of the metal. With the […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><b>Anti-Partisan Badge Creation Process</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As we mentioned briefly in the last blog, Anti-Partisan Badge (APB) has many versions depending on the creation process. Today, we’ll dive deeper into the details of the creation process, starting with the stamping methods. The hot stamping method negatively affects the precision and the forming of the metal. With the cold stamping process (the process used on the majority of German WWII badges) there is a better precision of the dimensions and a more precise definition of the features. The hot stamping process is the reason why the APB is a badge with flaws, imprecisions, and variable shapes. After the badge was allowed to cool, it went through the shearing process. Here all the excess material is removed by hand from the badge including the areas between the sword and the oakleaves. If the badge is not perfectly positioned under the cutter blade the sword is twisted either to the left or right making each badge slightly different.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-790" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anti-Partisan-Badge-creation-process-details-1.png" alt="Anti-Partisan Badge creation process details " width="575" height="432" srcset="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anti-Partisan-Badge-creation-process-details-1.png 575w, http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anti-Partisan-Badge-creation-process-details-1-480x360.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 575px, 100vw" /></p> <p><em><strong>Image:</strong> This is a recreation of a finished APB planchet before the excess material is removed.</em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The next process is punching. Here the worker removes some parts of the areas around the snakes with a chisel. The area is punched from the rear using a single, precise blow. The force needed can cause cuts and cracks at the back of the badge.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The final stage is grinding and filing to remove the burrs and other surplus material left over after the shearing and punching steps. The key to understanding the APB is that the construction process causes many minor differences between similar badges. One can question the wisdom of the Juncker Company using the hot stamping method in making these badges. They were trying to overcome the problems of making badges out of inferior materials and ended up creating a great deal of additional hand work to make a poor-quality badge. The intent of this book is to provide the collector the ability to determine if a badge is original and then be able to classify it as one of the four types of Juncker-made badges.</span></p> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 1</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Needle pin, long barrel hinge, flat wire catch, manually finished</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 2.1</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Needle pin, long barrel hinge, flat wire catch, chiseled cutouts</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 2.2</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Needle pin, long & short barrel hinge, flat and round wire catch, two chiseled cutouts</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 2.3</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Banjo pin, short barrel hinge, flat wire catch, two chiseled cutouts</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 3.1</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Banjo pin, short barrel hinge, flat wire catch, can be either thick or thin, flattened snake head on the #5 snake</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 3.2</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Banjo pin, short barrel hinge, flat wire catch, can be either thick or thin</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1"><b>Type 4</b><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Banjo pin, short barrel hinge, flat wire catch, no cutouts. all examples are thick.</span></li> </ul> <p> </p> <h2><b>Anti-Partisan Badge Type Examples</b></h2> <h3>Juncker Type 1 Anti-Partisan Badge in Gold</h3> <p>Here is a beautiful example of a Juncker Type 1 APB in Gold. This was the sample for the production run and was manually finished using a small milling machine. It is believed that only a few numbers were made. It is the only type that does not have a slanted sword.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-798" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-1-Anti-Partisan-Badge-in-Gold-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 1 Anti-Partisan Badge in Gold" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-791" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-of-Juncker-Type-1-Anti-Partisan-Badge-in-Gold-225x300.png" alt="Backside of Juncker Type 1 Anti-Partisan Badge in Gold" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The two large open areas on each side of the sword are perfectly milled out as are the cut-outs around the snakes. <strong>Right Image: </strong>Notice the needle pin, long barrel hinge, and flat wire catch.</em></p> <p> </p> <h3>Juncker Type 2.1 Anti-Partisan Badge in Silver</h3> <p>The Type 2 consists of three slightly different models. A nice example of a 2.1 Silver badge. All APBs are made from fine zinc. Many times the zinc will absorb the painted finish of the badge.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-799" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-2.1-Anti-Partisan-Badge-in-silver-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 2.1 Anti-Partisan Badge in silver" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-792" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-of-Juncker-Type-2.1-Anti-Partisan-Badge-in-silver-225x300.png" alt="Backside of Juncker Type 2.1 Anti-Partisan Badge in silver" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The two large open areas are punched out causing the hilt of the sword to be twisted. <strong>Right Image:</strong> <span class="attachment__name">The 2.1 has the needle pin, short barrel hinge, and flat wire catch. The cutout around the snakes were chiseled out.</span></em></p> <p> </p> <h3>Juncker Type 2.2 Anti-Partisan Badge</h3> <p>This silver 2.2 is a handsome badge. Notice it has a crack on the edge made by the punching of the areas around the snakes.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-800" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-2.2-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 2.2 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-797" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-ofJuncker-Type-2.2-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Backside ofJuncker Type 2.2 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> <span class="options-menu options-menu--attachment hide-on-print" data-behavior="expandable"> This example has a slight twist to the sword hilt.</span> <strong>Right Image: </strong>The back has a needle pin, and can have either long and short barrel hinges, flat and round wire catches, and two chiseled cutouts.</em></p> <p> </p> <h3>Juncker Type 2.3 Anti-Partisan Badge</h3> <p>Type 2.3 in gold with two cut-outs. It is difficult for me to tell the differences between the three models. It becomes more difficult in the next series.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-804" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-2.3-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 2.3 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-793" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-ofJuncker-Type-2.3-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Backside of Juncker Type 2.3 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> A slightly different twist to the sword hilt on all three models. <strong>Right Image: </strong>Hardware setup system with short barrel hinge, banjo style pin and flat wire catch.</em></p> <p> </p> <h3>Juncker Type 3.1 Anti-Partisan Badge</h3> <p>The type 3 badge can be either thick or thin and was produced by the same dies as the earlier badges.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-803" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-3.1-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 3.1 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-794" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-ofJuncker-Type-3.1-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Backside of Juncker Type 3.1 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The skull is thinner than that of the earlier badges and type 3 almost always has two cutouts. <strong>Right Image:</strong> Hardware setup with a short barrel hinge, banjo-style pin, and flat wire catch.</em></p> <p> </p> <h3>Juncker Type 3.2 Anti-Partisan Badge</h3> <p>The APB type 3.2 badge in bronze.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-801" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-3.2-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 3.2 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-795" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-of-Juncker-Type-3.2-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Backside of Juncker Type 3.2 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The sword is tilted further to the right on this badge. This model has two cut-outs around the snakes and is the last model with this feature. <strong>Right Image: </strong>The hardware setup is the same as the previous 3.1 badge, This is a thin type 3.2 badge. This badge is more prone to breakage than the thick models.</em></p> <p> </p> <h3>Juncker Type 4 Anti-Partisan Badge</h3> <p>The final type 4 semi-hollow badge was made by the C.E. Juncker Company. The company produced badges throughout 1944 until their Berlin factory was destroyed in a February 15th air raid. The Juncker semi-hollow badges are the only proven wartime-constructed APBs. The later Steinhauer & Luck and Rudolf Souval flat-back model Anti-Partisan badges are still unconfirmed as originals.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-802" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Juncker-Type-4-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Juncker Type 4 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-796" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Backside-of-Juncker-Type-4-Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.png" alt="Backside of Juncker Type 4 Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The type 4 skull is slightly different, This badge does not have the cut-outs of the earlier badges. <strong>Right Image:</strong> The hardware setup remains constant with the type 3 badges. All type 4 badges are the thick type.</em></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Anti-Partisan Badge: Digging Deeper into the Military Collectible</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/11/15/anti-partisan-badge-digging-deeper-into-the-military-collectible/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 15 Nov 2023 14:00:21 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military History]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Memorabilia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anti-Partisan Badge]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Collectible]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WWII German Badge]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=766</guid> <description><![CDATA[Today, I would like to discuss the WWII German Anti-Partisan Badge (APB). As the tides of war turned against Germany in 1943, the acts of sabotage and terror against German forces and Installations increased. The Germans were forced to invest resources and soldiers to combat a wide array of irregular fighters. To recognize the individual […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Today, I would like to discuss the WWII German Anti-Partisan Badge (APB). As the tides of war turned against Germany in 1943, the acts of sabotage and terror against German forces and Installations increased. The Germans were forced to invest resources and soldiers to combat a wide array of irregular fighters. To recognize the individual soldier’s sacrifices and accomplishments, a new Badge was created in January 1944. It was awarded in three grades: bronze, silver, and gold. The conditions for the awarding for the first grade (bronze): 20 deployment days, the second grade (silver): 50 deployment days, and for the third grade (gold): 100 deployment days. This was one of the last German war badges authorized for production. What is significant about this badge is that it was produced and awarded during a turbulent time when factories and transportation networks were bombed, occupied territory was lost, and many German units were destroyed. This created conditions of uneven awarding and distribution. The design of the badge, combined with the sinister nature of the award, made it a favorite badge of German Badge Collectors. This also led to this badge being the most copied of any Third Reich Badge. To assist the collector in validating original badges and identifying copies, B&D Publishing Company produced <em>The Anti-Partisan Badge</em> by Antonio Scapini. This 272-page book is well illustrated with color photographs of original badges and their documents, along with many fake badges currently being circulated. It is a must-have book for the serious German Badge collector and enthusiast.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-772" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/The-Cover-of-The-Anti-Partisan-Badge-by-Antonio-Scapini-225x300.png" alt="The Cover of The Anti-Partisan Badge by Antonio Scapini" width="300" height="400" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-782" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/book-details-within-The-Anti-Partisan-Badge-by-Antonio-Scapini-3-768x1024.png" alt="" width="300" height="400" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> The cover of the APB Book. Keep in mind that the author, Antonio Scapini, is Italian and some of the English interpretations of his work are awkward. <strong>Right Image:</strong> All German WWII Badges were die-struck from blanks of fine zinc metal by machines similar to this one.</em></p> <h2><strong>C.E. Juncker Company: Anti-Partisan Badge</strong></h2> <p>The primary manufacturer of this badge is the C.E. Juncker Company, Berlin. They had the reputation of producing some of the highest quality badges of this time. Their approach to making this badge is described by the author as both “peculiar and particular”. Juncker adopted a hybrid process that heated the zinc blanks and then placed them between two die halves on a work bench where they were then pressed. Two dies were used: a negative half (the front of the badge) and a positive die half (the reverse of the badge) that was fixed to a moveable part. The negative part was fixed to the work bench, while the positive part was placed manually on the press lever. This explains why the back of the badge does not have a standard shape and the hollow center pieces are often shifted to the right or the left. The pressure to form the badge was exerted manually making the badges of different weights and thicknesses. The uneven cooling of the hot metal also caused peeling as parts of the metal cooled in a non-uniform way.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-769 size-medium" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anti-Partisan-Badge-front-225x300.png" alt="Anti-Partisan Badge front" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-768 size-medium" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anti-Partisan-Badge-back-225x300.png" alt="Anti-Partisan Badge back" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-767 size-medium" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Anti-Partisan-Badge-back-details-225x300.png" alt="Anti-Partisan Badge back details" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> This is the first Anti-Partisan Badge that I purchased from George Petersen over 35 years ago. It is an example of the poor-quality workmanship caused by the hybrid process. <strong>Middle Image:</strong> This is the back of the badge. This is an example of a thin badge that was damaged and repaired at the factory. <strong>Right Image:</strong> One can see where this badge is cracked and has scaling. I do not if this badge was issued or found in a box at the factory after the war.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-806 size-medium" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Thicker-verison-of-Anti-Partisan-Badge-front-1-225x300.png" alt="Thicker verison of Anti-Partisan Badge front 1" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-773 size-medium" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Thicker-verison-of-Anti-Partisan-Badge-back-225x300.png" alt="Thicker verison of Anti-Partisan Badge back" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-771 size-medium" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/showing-the-differences-between-Anti-Partisan-Badge-sides-225x300.png" alt="showing the differences between Anti-Partisan Badge sides" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p><em><strong>Left Image:</strong> Example of the thick Anti-Partisan Badge. One can notice that it is a nice quality badge. <strong>Middle Image</strong>: This badge has the distinctive back that one should see on all Juncker-produced APBs. One can observe the chiseled marks used to create the cutouts between the snakes. <strong>Right Image:</strong></em> <em>This photo illustrates the different thicknesses between a thin badge and a thick badge. The thin badge is on the left side of the image.</em></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-786" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/side-by-side-comparison-of-the-different-version-of-the-Anti-Partisan-Bage.png" alt="side by side comparison of the different version of the Anti-Partisan Bage" width="496" height="372" srcset="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/side-by-side-comparison-of-the-different-version-of-the-Anti-Partisan-Bage.png 496w, http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/side-by-side-comparison-of-the-different-version-of-the-Anti-Partisan-Bage-480x360.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 496px, 100vw" /></p> <p><em><strong>Image:</strong></em> <em>Side-by-side comparison of two original Anti-Partisan Badges, both made by the Juncker factory at roughly the same time. How many differences can you spot? The badge on the left sword is tilted more to the left. Also, notice the differences in the cutout areas around the snakes. The two badges shown above fall somewhere in the <strong>Type 2.3</strong>, <strong>Type 3.1,</strong> or <strong>Type 3.2</strong> categories, which we will </em><i>discuss in our next blog.</i></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Discovering German Shoulder Straps & Anti-Partisan Badge at Missouri Valley Arms</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/10/06/discovering-german-shoulder-straps-anti-partisan-badge-at-missouri-valley-arms/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 06 Oct 2023 14:00:19 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Memorabilia]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Trade Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Anti-Partisan Badge]]></category> <category><![CDATA[German Shoulder Straps]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Machine Gun Battalion WW2]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Missouri Vally Arms Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Missouri Vally Arms Show 2023]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Russian Foreign Volunteer]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=755</guid> <description><![CDATA[From 28 to 30 July, I attended the Missouri Vally Arms Show held every summer at the Kansas City International (KCI) Airport. I have attended this show for decades and it rarely disappoints. The great thing about this show is that it is a Club Show and is held primarily for the betterment and entertainment […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>From 28 to 30 July, I attended the Missouri Vally Arms Show held every summer at the Kansas City International (KCI) Airport. I have attended this show for decades and it rarely disappoints. The great thing about this show is that it is a Club Show and is held primarily for the betterment and entertainment of its members. Most gun shows are hosted by promoters with the primary aim of making money. The problem with most of these shows is that there is not a large enough market to support the number of shows being held. This leads to a watering down of the quality of items being offered and potential buyers not having the time and opportunity to save up funds to buy new collectibles. Promoters make money from table rent and admissions regardless of how many items are sold and how much value is provided to the collecting public. Attending many of these shows is problematic if you are attempting to buy quality collectibles at current market value. Most times one will make the drive, pay the $12 admission fee, walk around for 20-30 minutes attempting to find something to purchase, and leave after finding nothing.</p> <h2><strong>Rudolf Souvil Anti-Partisan Badge (APB)</strong></h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-757" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Anti-Partisan-Badge-225x300.jpg" alt="Anti-Partisan Badge" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-756" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Anti-Partisan-Badge-Backside-225x300.jpg" alt="Anti-Partisan Badge Backside" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p>About a third of the tables at this show have military items. This is a much better mix than most gun shows with current firearms, accessories, and a great deal of non-related junk. I was fortunate to find a very nice Rudolf Souvil Anti-Partisan Badge (APB), shown above, and several nice German Army Shoulder Straps to add to my collection. This badge was made during WWII but was unfinished when the war ended. After the war this Vienna, Austria Company realized that they had boxes of similar items sitting around that could be sold as souvenirs. To market these badges they added pins and catches that were available commercially at the time. The original WWII ones had different hardware. In the near future, I will feature a blog on the APB. The shoulder boards came from an old collection in California that one of the dealers purchased and took to this show. I love German shoulder straps and have several hundred in my collection and was excited to find these uncommon examples.</p> <h2><strong>German Shoulder Straps: Unique </strong><b>Variation</b></h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-760" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/german-shoulder-strap-green-variation-225x300.jpg" alt="german shoulder strap (green variation)" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-763" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/reinforced-button-hole-on-a-german-shoulder-strap-green-variation-225x300.png" alt="reinforced button hole on a german shoulder strap (green variation)" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p>This economy M-1944 Signal shoulder strap was made using leftover stocks of dark green badge cloth. I have never encountered this variation. Appears this company used what was available to them. This is the backside of the board that displays the simplified construction utilizing a piece of lining material to reinforce the button holes of the board while eliminating the need for a separate cloth backing.</p> <h2><strong>German Shoulder Straps: Machine Gun Battalion WW2 Variation</strong></h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-758" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/backside-of-german-shoulder-strap-for-Machine-Gun-Battalion-ww2-225x300.png" alt="backside of german shoulder strap for Machine Gun Battalion ww2" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-761" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/german-shoulder-strap-for-Machine-Gun-Battalion-ww2-225x300.png" alt="german shoulder strap for Machine Gun Battalion ww2" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p>This board appears to be a standard late-war Infantry Unteroffizere but on the back, one can see that it was made from an earlier production board that was found sitting around in the factory. This is the rear of the same board that started life as one made for #7 Machine Gun Battalion WW2. The board retains the early white wool piping and has the attaching strap turned over to the field grey side and sewn.</p> <h2><strong>German Shoulder Straps: Russian Foreign Volunteer Variation</strong></h2> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-762" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/german-shoulder-strap-for-Russian-Foreign-Volunteers-225x300.jpg" alt="german shoulder strap for Russian Foreign Volunteers" width="225" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-759" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/backside-of-german-shoulder-strap-for-Russian-Foreign-Volunteers-225x300.png" alt="backside of german shoulder strap for Russian Foreign Volunteers" width="225" height="300" /></p> <p>This standard German Army Enlisted shoulder strap has had an added rank stripe used by Russian Foreign Volunteer units. Although these units had their own specific insignia it was not always available, so some units used what they had on hand to equip their Soldiers.</p> <p>Stop by our shop or visit our eBay store to browse through our unique collection of Military Memorabilia today! Our collection is constantly being updated with new items! If you’re looking to update your collection or find good homes for your prized possessions, look no further than Military Collector Services! We take great pride in caring for these unique pieces of history and provide honest market prices. Reach out to us today to learn more!</p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>Searching for Adventure and Military Vendors at Automobile Swap Meets</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/09/29/searching-for-adventure-and-military-vendors-at-automobile-swap-meets/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 29 Sep 2023 13:00:24 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military Trade Show]]></category> <category><![CDATA[96 Highway]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Automobile Swap Meets]]></category> <category><![CDATA[East German Army Helmet]]></category> <category><![CDATA[militaria dealers]]></category> <category><![CDATA[military items]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Surplus]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Military Vendors]]></category> <category><![CDATA[MRE meal packets]]></category> <category><![CDATA[original Route 66 Highway]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Ozark Empire Fairgrounds]]></category> <category><![CDATA[US Army Large Alice Pack]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=751</guid> <description><![CDATA[This time I would like to talk about Automobile Swap Meets and the opportunity to find military items along with everything else. Every August the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds is home to one of the largest Automobile Swap Meets in the Four State area. This year I attended along with my oldest Granddaughter, Charlie. She is […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This time I would like to talk about Automobile Swap Meets and the opportunity to find military items along with everything else. Every August the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds is home to one of the largest Automobile Swap Meets in the Four State area. This year I attended along with my oldest Granddaughter, Charlie. She is actively involved in Judo and helps my son Max build automobile restoration spreadsheets at his business, Liles Performance and Auto Body.</p> <p>We were fortunate to enjoy one of the nicest August days in recent memory. Normally, the weather for this event is brutal with 90-degree temps and high humidity. The nice weather contributed to crowd attendance; this event had the largest turnout of people attending that I have seen. In previous years I have been able to acquire many nice military items from some of the vendors that frequent this market. Since the COVID-19 disruptions of 2020 and 2021, this venue has endured many changes. The vendors that I was able to buy military items from are gone. I have attended the last three years hoping that they have returned but they have not.</p> <p>The market is large and takes up the entire fairground, so I thought there was always a chance to turn up something nice. Charlie and I walked for almost four hours and covered the entire area. This is a difficult walk as the vendors are set up over several hills so there is a great deal of walking up and down hills. I was able to find a nice US Army Large Alice Pack and that was all. I did see a Parachute that was missing the shroud lines and an East German Army Helmet that I should have bought but didn’t. I still have memories of how difficult they were to sell 10 years ago.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-752 " src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Automobile-Swap-Meet-at-Ozark-Empire-Fairgrounds-768x1024.png" alt="Automobile Swap Meet at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds" width="506" height="675" srcset="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Automobile-Swap-Meet-at-Ozark-Empire-Fairgrounds-768x1024.png 506w, http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Automobile-Swap-Meet-at-Ozark-Empire-Fairgrounds-480x640.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 506px, 100vw" /></p> <p>The few items of military surplus that we found were priced much too high and their asking price was several times of what I routinely sell the same item for here. For instance, one vendor was asking $15 for single MRE meal packets. I normally sell these for $5. I can cite other examples of similar “jacked” prices, but you get the idea.</p> <p>There was a great deal of new construction on the fairgrounds as they were building new metal exhibition buildings. The Fairgrounds are changing so there is still hope that some new vendors will take the place of the old ones and there will be more than auto-related items being sold. So next August plan to attend this event because you never know what you might find.</p> <p>I know several smaller militaria dealers that set up at Automobile Swap Meets in Kansas and Nebraska. I have also seen flyers for several swap meets in Oklahoma. So, if one has the time attending one of these swap meets is a fun adventure.</p> <p>On the way home, I treated Charlie to a nice lunch at the Cracker Barrel. We returned home via 96 Highway which was part of the original Route 66 Highway. Sadly there are not as many attractions along this road as there were years ago. The highlight of our return trip was showing her where me and her dad found our 1969 Dodge Charger.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-753 " src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Eating-a-Meal-at-Cracker-Barrel.png" alt="" width="506" height="675" srcset="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Eating-a-Meal-at-Cracker-Barrel.png 506w, http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Eating-a-Meal-at-Cracker-Barrel-480x640.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 506px, 100vw" /></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>The Start of Bringing Home Military Memorabilia and Trophies of War</title> <link>https://www.militarycollectorservices.com/2023/09/13/the-start-of-bringing-home-military-memorabilia-and-trophies-of-war/</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Military Collector Services]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 13 Sep 2023 14:00:26 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Military History]]></category> <category><![CDATA[army post office]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Trophies of War]]></category> <category><![CDATA[war trophies]]></category> <category><![CDATA[War Trophies: WW2]]></category> <category><![CDATA[war trophy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[WW2 war trophies]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/?p=738</guid> <description><![CDATA[Trying to write a short history about militaria collecting in America, is a difficult mission. The hobby was started by US Soldiers bringing back WW2 war trophies. The older Soldiers were not attracted to items from a defeated enemy. They knew what things historically have had value. They brought back clocks, porcelain, silverware, oil paintings […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Trying to write a short history about militaria collecting in America, is a difficult mission. The hobby was started by US Soldiers bringing back WW2 war trophies. The older Soldiers were not attracted to items from a defeated enemy. They knew what things historically have had value. They brought back clocks, porcelain, silverware, oil paintings and other antiquities. Young Soldiers did not have the same knowledge or concept of value. They were told by their military superiors that they could bring back military items from a defeated enemy. A War Department Circular No 353 outlines the retention of war trophies by American Service Members.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-745 " src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/War-Department-Circular-No-353-768x1024.jpg" alt="" width="445" height="593" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-744 " src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/War-Department-Circular-No-353-continued-776x1024.jpg" alt="" width="449" height="593" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-747 " src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/WW2-mailing-certificate-form.png" alt="" width="447" height="308" /></p> <p>(The first two pictures depicted above describes the introduction and regulations of war souvenirs as stated in the War Department Circular No 353. The last image is of the form soldiers were required to fill out and documented by an Officer in his Chain of Command.)</p> <p>With millions of US Soldiers being able to legally bring back war souvenirs, such as Corporal Joseph Melos who was packing his souvenirs in the picture below, the interest in the hobby began. I remember when as a young kid I was fascinated by some of the items brought back by dads and uncles of some of my school mates. Sometimes they would bring these items to school for Show and Tell.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-739" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Corporal-Joseph-Melosh-mailing-military-souvenirs-231x300.jpg" alt="" width="231" height="300" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-742" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Lieutenant-Donald-Sykes-chosing-a-WW2-german-helment-as-a-souvenir-300x194.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="194" /></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-748" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/German-Helmets-and-Equipment-left-behind-after-a-battle-1-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-740" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Counting-German-Helmets-at-large-Quartermaster-Depot-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></p> <p>The other photos give you an idea as to just how much military equipment was available. After making a selection and amassing a collection the harder part was getting it home. The Army Post Office or APO as it is affectionately called by those of us who have used it was up to the job. The two main Army Post offices to receive and process this material was in New York City for the European Theater and San Francisco, California for the Pacific Theater. One can only imagine the volume of Soldier mail and packages that was processed by these facilities.</p> <p>An interesting story was told by Garrison Keiler author and humorist, best known for the PBS radio program “The Prairie Home Companion”. Garrison lived in New York City while his father a Soldier worked at the Army Post Office there. He would roam the city learning about the Arts and Entertainment industries that would later become his career.</p> <p>One of the biggest challenges faced by the Soldier was packaging his collection for shipment. Cardboard boxes were hard to come by in war torn lands so many Soldiers built their own boxes out of wood and painted their addresses on them. It is a delight today to find one of these boxes although I have never been fortunate to find one with the contents intact. A great example of a soldier made box sent home by PFC Bujnak, 83rd Quartermaster, CO., to his home in Cleveland, Ohio</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-743 size-full" src="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Soldier-made-box-full-of-war-souvenirs.png" alt="" width="917" height="398" srcset="http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Soldier-made-box-full-of-war-souvenirs.png 917w, http://www.militarycollectorservices.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Soldier-made-box-full-of-war-souvenirs-480x208.png 480w" sizes="(min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 917px, 100vw" /></p> ]]></content:encoded> </item> </channel> </rss>