Buy Other Military Aircraft Collectibles for Interesting Display Pieces
Amassing a collection of aircraft and military-related stuff is one way to honor the heroes who protect the safety and freedom of the masses, along with appreciating the rapid development of military technology. You can find an interesting variety of items, and it only requires a little digging to find something worth putting up on your wall or shelf.
What Military Aircraft Collectables Are Available?
- Apparel: One common collectible in the military aircraft category are uniforms and Air Force-issued clothes. These include pilot uniforms and training gear used for physical conditioning exercises and the like. You don't even have to buy an entire set. Just shop for that armband or patch that has been missing from your granddad's old flight suit.
- Components: Another worthwhile type of collectible is components. An original working clock from a Luftwaffe Messerschmitt aircraft would blend well on a side table in a man cave. You can also find aircraft clock stands on which you can mount a MIG clock for tactical time-telling.
- Equipment: Helmets, life preservers, and even flight control columns can look good framed on a wall or preserved on a shelf. A flight helmet set complete with skull cap and gloves can also make for a fitting costume on Halloween or for a theme party.
How Do I Care for My Miniature Aircraft Models?
Other military aircraft collectibles include scale models that can either be diecast metal or made of plastic that you build yourself.
- Protection: Antique models or plastic variants that you have put many hours into in painting, weather, and detailing all deserve that extra bit of protection. A glass case is essential for protecting against dust, while a flat or gloss coat helps protect the paintwork from becoming smudged or contaminated.
- Cleaning: Scale models can be delicate, especially the plastic sort. These often have thin, small plastic components that can gather dust as well. Use a small, light feather duster to dust off any models that aren't in a glass case or shelf.
What Other Memorabilia Can I Collect?
- Badges: Other types of military collectibles include paratrooper badges, insignias, and other military antiques. Put your collection in a shadowbox for a contrast in color to bring out that beauty of these military signs of honor.
- Propellers: Old aircraft propellers make for interesting display pieces on a wall. Barnstorming planes used wooden propellers with painted details. This makes it ideal as a display piece on an accent wall.
- Silver Coins: Silver coins and challenge coins are awarded to commemorate milestones in an airman's career. For instance, US Air Force training instructors would award an airman's coin to newly enlisted personnel after finishing basic military training or to new officers.