4 Medal Collecting Books That Separate Experts from Amateurs

Jesús Chapela Rey's extensive experience as a lawyer and dedicated collector specializing in the Napoleonic era reshaped how experts approach medal collecting from this period. Drawing on more than twenty years of deep involvement and his active roles in respected societies like OMSA, he meticulously catalogs 285 awards across fourteen nations involved in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars. You gain detailed insights into diverse campaign medals and orders, supported by over 900 vivid color images, making it a solid reference for both identification and historical context. This book suits collectors and military history enthusiasts who want a focused, richly illustrated guide to a pivotal era rather than a general overview.

What sparks debate in Alec A. Purves's handbook is his detailed examination of medal authenticity—a vital concern for collectors navigating a sea of fakes and re-strikes. Drawing on his deep expertise, Purves goes beyond typical cataloging to teach you how to identify forgeries, understand die varieties, and evaluate preservation states, which can make or break a collection's value. This book suits both novices eager to start with confidence and seasoned collectors seeking to sharpen their appraisal skills. For instance, chapter 7 dives into the nuances of spotting fakes, offering practical insights rarely found elsewhere. If you're serious about medal collecting, this book lays down a foundation you cannot overlook.

This personalized book on Napoleonic campaign medals provides a tailored framework for exploring the intricate history and classification of medals awarded during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. It focuses on key methodologies for identifying, authenticating, and contextualizing these awards within their historical campaigns, emphasizing their significance in military heritage. The content adjusts to your specific collecting interests and expertise, addressing nuances such as country-specific variations and award criteria. By cutting through generic information, it offers a focused, historically grounded approach that fits your particular goals in medal collecting, enhancing both knowledge and practical evaluation skills with a detailed yet adaptable study.

What if everything you knew about starting a military medal collection was wrong? Colin Narbeth challenges common assumptions by laying out the essential background and goals every beginner should understand before diving in. Drawing from his extensive experience in military history and collectibles, Narbeth walks you through the key aims to pursue and the common pitfalls that can trip up novices. Chapter 3’s discussion on authentication highlights how easily mistakes can be made without proper knowledge. If you’re just stepping into this hobby, this guide offers a grounded introduction, though seasoned collectors may find it too basic.

What changed with this book is how you see the hobby of coin and medal collecting—not just as a pastime but as a potential source of profit and deep knowledge. Howard W. A. Linecar draws on his extensive numismatic expertise to guide you through identifying valuable pieces, understanding market dynamics, and appreciating historical context. You’ll find practical insights into grading coins and medals, with chapters detailing how to build a collection that balances enjoyment with financial sense. This book suits both newcomers wanting solid foundations and seasoned collectors aiming to sharpen their evaluative skills.