Would you be offended?

[Archive]

Posted By: Ben

Jim,
I apologize for distorting your words. Unfortunately, I've had many people jump to conclusions as to why I collect the stuff I do. Being one of the younger collectors in the military hobby (25 years old) I seem to be questioned even more than the other guys!

There are several reasons why Nazi items appeal to collectors. As a collector of World War Two items, one of the reasons I buy German items is simply because Germany was a very significant combatant in the war. I began by collecting American military items and acquiring German and Japanese items seemed like a natural progression. The atrocities committed under Hitler were of course reprehensible and I in no way agree with the politics, beliefs etc of the Nazi party. I choose to include a Nazi helmet or a Nazi flag in my collection because it represents people, ideas and events relating to WW2.

The other reason people (including myself) choose to collect Nazi items is because many of these pieces were extremely well made, and while they are doubtless offensive, the quality of the items still demands attention. For example, if you compare a German dress dagger to a Japanese or American one, the decorative nature and aesthetic appeal is much greater. It would be like putting a T3 next to a strip card...the eye will immediately go to the T3 because of its rich colors and quality printing compared to the strip card.

The other thing that bothers me (and this is not directed at you JimB...just a general observation) is how people constantly speak of how horrible the Germans were (and rightfully so) but usually neglect to mention the atrocities committed by the Russians and Japanese. Stalin killed many more people than Hitler did and the average American POW was treated much better by the Germans than by the Japanese.

I realize this thread has taken a direction other than what was initially intended but its an interesting conversation!

Dan - You are probably right about it being good business sense not to include it in the auction.