As we approach Memorial Day, a time to honor the brave men and women who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, our thoughts turn to the symbols and mementos that preserve their legacy. Within the realms of numismatics and collectables, few items evoke more reverence than coins, medals, and other militaria issued to commemorate the great sacrifices of our soldiers throughout history.
For collectors, these patriotic pieces don’t just hold monetary value – they represent a tangible connection to the personal stories, key battles, and defining moments that have shaped our nation’s narrative over centuries of conflict. Building a cabinet around such themes is a powerful way to intertwine your passion for numismatics with an appreciation for those who defended our freedoms.
Coins and Medals of American Wartime
- Classic Commemoratives: Many iconic U.S. coin designs and special issues were originally minted to raise funds or memorialize major military events. Examples include the 1936-38 Long Island and Bridgeport Commemorative half dollars tied to World War I, 1925 Stone Mountain Memorial issues honoring the Confederacy, and 2021’s first-ever U.S. Colored Coin celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
- Service Medals and Awards: While not technically numismatic items, military service medals like the Army’s Medal of Honor, Navy Cross, Purple Heart, and many others are among the most coveted collectables. These prestigious decorations signify the highest levels of valor, sacrifice, and distinguished conduct – making certified examples immensely meaningful additions to any cabinet alongside related coins and currency.
- Challenge Coins: Within modern military circles, ornate challenge coins minted by specific units or leadership have become beloved morale-boosting traditions. Passed out to recognize excellence, their constantly evolving designs document deployment locations and missions. Full cabinet runs of these Limited Edition coins provide an intimate snapshot into recent American military operations worldwide.
Trench Art and Militaria Memorabilia
- Trench Art: Beyond standardized medals and coins, many collectors also prize unique “trench art” creations handcrafted by soldiers from spent ammunition and battlefield materials. Ornate shell casings defaced with graffiti art or personal inscriptions from the maker and objects fashioned from shrapnel all offer powerfully personal windows into the realities of war.
- Non-Monetary Numismatic Pieces: Rounding out the category are more specialized items like surgical buckles, unit badges and insignias, sweetheart jewelry exchanged by GIs and loved ones, military payment certificates and scrip, ration tokens, dog tags, and other numismatic-adjacent collectibles unique to wartime contexts. Many represent the only surviving physical reminders of those who served.
Where to Find Patriotic Militaria in San Diego
For those seeking to build their own numismatic collections around military themes, the greater San Diego area offers some excellent resources:
- CV Coins and Collectables: Our Chula Vista shop frequently acquires coins, medals, sets, and other pieces celebrating America’s military heritage. Visit us to browse our current inventory online and get expert advice.
- Local Collectors Shows: Keep an eye out for booths run by military specialists and dealers at recurring San Diego coin/collectables shows and expos.
- Museums and Historical Groups: Museums, veteran’s associations, and historical societies sometimes auction or sell deaccessioned militaria from their collections.
- Online Auctions and Forums: While remote purchases require extra precautions, online auction houses and collector forums remain prime sources for military numismatics. Proper vetting is a must.
With some persistence and guidance from the experts at the best coin shops in San Diego, like CV Coins and Collectables, you can assemble an impactful assortment of coins and medals that pay tribute to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who sacrificed for our nation.
This Memorial Day, let your collection be a reminder of all those we’ve lost in defense of democracy and freedom while celebrating the unyielding American spirit that continues to shape the course of history. CV Coins and Collectables is proud to connect you with these tangible pieces of patriotic numismatics.