Top Ten Gift Ideas for the Collector of Civil War Memorabilia

The Civil War is such an important part of America's history and the bloodiest war the United States has ever fought. History buffs and war buffs alike include the Civil War theme as one of their favorite memorabilias to collect. It isn't hard to find Civil War items for the collector, but prices vary greatly, so it really depends on the budget of the gift giver. The list below includes an assortment of different things the Civil War collector might wish to have. I did include some books and movies in the list, but I want to showcase a small sampling to the vast variety of items available. Of course there are genuine Civil War artifacts to be found by the serious antique collector without much regard for prices, but I found it impractical to include those types of items. This list does include various prices, from about $15.00 to $200.00 to fit several budgets.

Civil War calendar: This is very affordable gift that the Civil War buff will appreciate for the prints in the calendar by the well known artist Mort Kunstler. He is well known for his historical paintings' beauty and accurate depiction. This large calendar features twelve of Mort Kunstler's most important Civil War paintings. A historical background is included with each month's picture and the calendar marks important events of the Civil War. It measures 12" X 13" and the price is just under $15.00.

Civil War puzzle: This jigsaw puzzle is another inexpensive gift and great for the Civil War collector, history buff, or jigsaw puzzle enthusiast. This one thousand-piece puzzle is historical and educational. The finished size of the puzzle is 30" X 24" and the cost is $14.95.

Civil War coasters: This is practical and affordable gift for the Civil War buff to add to their collection. They would be a great addition to an office or home library. The set of four ceramic coasters showcase prints of Generals of the Civil War by Mort Kunstler. The porous ceramic absorbs moisture and the padded bottoms protect the furniture. The price for the set is $20.00.

Civil War book: This book is titled "The Official Military Atlas of the Civil War" by authors George B. Davis, Leslie J. Perry, Joseph W. Kirkley, Calvin D. Cowles (compiler) and Richard Sommers (introduction). When the Civil War was over, the government collected all the military documents into a book of official records. This book includes reproductions of the actual maps drawn during the war by engineers, draftsmen, and even from military officers. This is supposed to be the most detailed collection of maps ever published on the Civil War. It includes 821 maps, 106 engravings, and 209 drawings. This is a great book for the history buff and a must have for the Civil War buff. The hardcover edition of this book I found at a bookstore on-line for just under $20.00.

Civil War movie: The movie "Glory" is proclaimed to be one the best Civil War movies ever made. It tells a heart-touching story of the African-Americans that fought in the Civil War. It focuses on the 54th Regiment from the Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. The film is historically true and detailed with an all-star cast. The approximate price for the movie is $20.00 for a DVD.

Civil War movie: This movie is another favorite titled "Shenandoah" about a successful farmer living in Virginia who will not take sides in the Civil War. He is forced to get involved when the Union soldiers mistakenly captured his son. The family then sets out to get back the son and discover the horrors of war and the importance of family values. This great story has fantastic acting by Jimmy Stewart. The approximate price for a DVD is $20.00.

Mugs: This is a set of 4 large stoneware mugs and they are called the "Blue and Gray Series" from Mort Kuntsler. They show a different print on each mug of his famous paintings. The set of tall mugs are $32.95.

Civil War book: This hardback book is titled "Battle Cry of Freedom- the Civil War Era". The book was published in 1988. The author is James M. McPherson and he won a Pulitzer Prize for this book. It covers thoroughly all military aspects of the war, but also helps provide insight into the complicated issues surrounding the Civil War. The approximate cost of the book is $40.00.

Chess set: This chess set's pieces are meticulously detailed Civil War figures in authentic costumes and props. The alabaster playing board measures 14 5/8 X 14 5/8 and the price is $64.95.

Print: The title of this print by Dale Gallon is "Warriors' Tribute at Appomattox" at the Appomattox Courthouse in Virginia on April 12, 1865. Colonel Joshua Chamberlain is shown representing the government of the United States and is receiving the surrender from Longstreet's Corps. The price for this 16" X 26" print is $200.00.