10 Valuable World War II Collectibles That Tell a Story
Military collectibles from World War II have surpassed their status as mere artifacts and become tangible snippets of history. From weapons and maps to uniforms and medals, these valuable items can now sell for thousands of dollars among collectors and history buffs thanks to their rarity and connection to one of the most tumultuous times in modern history.
Here are 10 WWII military collectibles that command top dollar today and connect us to the past.
1. M1 Garand Rifle
Dubbed “the greatest battle implement ever devised” by General George S. Patton, the M1 Garand was the standard U.S. service rifle used during WWII. Its semi-automatic range gave American troops an edge by providing faster and more reliable firepower compared to the bolt-action rifles used by many enemy forces.
Original, unmodified models in mint condition can fetch high thousands, especially if they have matching serial numbers or provenance linking them to specific battles. One of these rifles with a gas trap sold for $57,500 at auction.
2. German Luger P08 Pistol
The Luger P08, with its distinctive toggle-lock mechanism, is one of the most famous firearms to come out of the war. Used extensively by German SS officers, these pistols are hot commodities among collectors thanks to their historical appeal. Rare variants, such as those with specific markings or provenance, can sell for thousands of dollars (averaging about $2,000).
3. Enigma Machine
The Enigma machine, used by the Germany military to encrypt military communications, was seen as a groundbreaking tool that initially stumped Allied code-breakers at Bletchley Park. Fully functional models are incredibly rare today and can fetch close to a quarter million dollars at auction; one sold for $206,253 in 2023.
4. WWII-Era Medals and Decorations
Rare medals like the Medal of Honor, Victoria Cross, or Iron Cross are highly collectible, especially if they’re linked to famous soldiers or come with documentation. Case in point: This Victoria Cross from 1891 that was awarded to a British soldier for his heroism during the Battle of Arnhem. In 2020, it sold for a staggering £420,000 (about $546,000) at auction.
5. WWII Jump Wings and Paratrooper Gear
Airborne jump wings and paratrooper equipment from WWII are highly prized for their connection to some of the war’s most daring operations. These items, which include things like original wings, helmets, and uniforms, can sell for thousands of dollars among collectors. Just take this paratrooper’s uniform that sold for over a grand at auction in 2020. If you own gear connected to iconic squadrons like the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions, it can be worth even more.
6. D-Day Invasion Maps
Original maps used during the D-Day invasion of Normandy are incredibly rare and valuable today. If you’re lucky, you may even find one with handwritten notes and scribbles detailing things like enemy positions and strategic defenses. In 2024, a set of D-Day maps and medals sold for £16,640 (about $20,000) at a Bonhams’ auction. Another “top secret” D-Day map “printed just weeks or days prior to the invasion” is also listed online for a whopping $15,000.
7. WWII Fighter Plane Memorabilia
Items like pilot helmets, flight logs, or pieces of downed aircraft are rare gems among collectors of war memorabilia. Just take this Spitfire pilot’s helmet and rescue kite that sold for £315 (about $409) at auction in 2003. Though not as valuable as some of the other items on this list, if you come across gear with ties to a famous pilot or mission, it can be worth much more.
8. Japanese Samurai (Gunto) Swords
Carried by Japanese officers during WWII, these prized blades feature traditional craftsmanship and artistry that make them highly sought-after among collectors and bladesmiths. Swords with historical provenance are especially valued and can sell for anywhere between a few hundred to over a grand on eBay.
9. Thompson Submachine Gun (Tommy Gun)
The Thompson submachine gun, also known as the “Tommy Gun,” was a favorite among Allied troops, gangsters, and law enforcement alike. Dubbed “America’s first SMG,” its limber design and .45-caliber firepower gave U.S. troops an advantage in close-range combat. Fully automatic models used by soldiers are prized by collectors, with pristine examples selling for high thousands. One sold for a whopping $90,000 at an auction in 2017.
10. Zippo Lighters
Zippo lighters carried by soldiers during WWII have become popular and nostalgic mementos among collectors. Thanks to their sentimental appeal, lighters engraved with personal inscriptions, unit insignia, or wartime mottos, are especially sought-after. A “windproof” Black Crackle Zippo lighter sold for $350 at auction. You can also find tons of listings on eBay with varying prices.