Illustrated Encyclopedia of Civil War Collectibles, The

The essential guide for collectors of Civil War artifacts and memorabilia. From antique carbines, bayonets, flags, and uniforms to letters, coins, cookware, toys, and surgical instruments: Civial War artifacts and memorabilia have become something of an American passion. Even before the war ended, people searched for souvenirs of what was to become the greatest watershed event in Amercian history. Soldiers on both sides traded buttons, badges, and canteens with one another, and ciitizens of Gettysburg combed the battlefield for mementos of that crucial encounter.

Today, hundreds of thousands of Americans describe themselves as Civil War hobbyists - they read Civil War periodicals and books, join Civil War organizations, take part in reenactments - and many collect items that were in some way involved in the war. Whether you're a history buff who enjoys picking up a small item here and there or a serious collector, this handsomely illustrated book is the perfect companion and the only comprehensive reference of its kind.

Designed to help the collector on several levels, The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Civil War Collectibles begins with an overview of the mechanics of the Civil War, including the purpose of the various units, the equipment they used, and the uniforms they wore. The core of the book is a detailed alphabetical listing of all the major collectible items and many of the minor ones, accompanied by hundreds of full-color and black-and-white photographs. A rich store of invaluable supplemental information and insider advice is included in the appendixes: sample price listings from recent auctions; directories of auction houses, dealers, and shows; Civil War organizations, libraries, collections, and publications; and tips for savvy collecting and caring for artifacts. This unique, authoritative guide will serve and delight both the novice and the experienced collector.

Chuck Lawliss is the author of the best-selling The Civil War Sourcebook as well as dozens of magazine articles on various aspects of the Civil War. He makes his home in Philadelphia and is working on a guide to Civil War inns.   316pp.