What's it worth? And am I even allowed to sell it? This guide brings together the answers we otherwise give scattered across the whole website — a starting point if you don't yet know where to begin.
What Is a Militaria Collector?
A militaria collector is someone who gathers and preserves historical military objects — medals, uniforms, equipment, documents — out of scholarly, historical, or personal interest, not out of ideological reverence. That's what distinguishes serious collecting from the glorification that the law rightly restricts (see Legal Situation): a collector documents a piece, places it in historical context, and preserves it — they don't put it on public display.
We ourselves are a collectors' house: Antique Militaria buys for its own collection, not for resale. That's why we don't factor in the margin a middleman would have to charge — and why we're interested in the story behind every piece, not just the price.
Where to Find the Answer to Your Question
- "What is my militaria worth?" — The value database has reference values for the most common pieces: medals, crosses, daggers, helmets, uniforms. Not listed? Send us photos and we'll tell you free of charge.
- "Is my piece original or a reproduction?" — Our authenticity-check overview brings together the features that matter for almost every militaria category.
- "Am I allowed to sell this?" — Yes, as a general rule. Legal Situation explains in plain terms what § 86a StGB actually regulates — and what it doesn't.
- "I have a whole Nachlass and no idea what's in it" — That's exactly what our page on Nachlass and Attic Finds is for: you don't need to sort anything before writing to us.
- "What exactly do you buy?" — The overview under Purchasing shows all eight categories, from medals to vehicles.
How It Works If You Decide to Sell
Photos via WhatsApp, a free valuation within 24 hours, and payment made in cash as soon as we agree on a price. Details on the Process page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually counts as militaria?
Anything connected to the military of a given era: medals and decorations, uniforms, helmets, edged weapons (no firearms), vehicles, equipment, documents, and photos. In our case specifically: historical pieces up to 1945.
What are old medals worth?
That depends heavily on the decoration, grade, condition, and accessories — from a few euros for mass-produced decorations to several thousand euros for rare pieces. You'll find an overview in the value database.
I don't know where to start — what should I do first?
Photograph the piece with your phone, exactly as it is — front, back, all markings. Send us the photos via WhatsApp. We'll take care of the rest.