Welcome aboard!     A good thing to do is post good photos of items that you may be suspicious of and ask for comments.  It is also a good practice to ask what other collectors think about an item before you buy it.  You can post your questions under specific topics such as German edged weapons or Japanese medals, etc.  You can also use the "Real, Repro, or Fake" topical for authenticity questions.        

Very nice.  Rich A. in Pa.

Hey there! thanks for responding! I already know a few things already but not much in general as it is a broad topic with vast selections. I was also wondering if there is page where I could get help authenticate a piece?

These are some bring backs I have acquired from junk shops, FB market, etc.  I think they are all M-80 helmets.  One is fire damaged & has a bullet or shrapnel hole in the lower back of the helmet (#3).   Two have Arabic writing (if anyone can translate that would be great), #1&3.   No.1 came with a camo cover.    please give me your insights.   thanks, Henry

Officers generally had to buy their own uniforms, so most were tailor made (and marked) rather than "issue" quality. (But there was a war on, and some NCOs had money, so you will see some variance both ways)

looks like a Luftwaffe survival flask

Welcome!  You are in good company- We are all "still learning" in this hobby- so my advice is to get to some shows and inspect and handle real pieces from reputable dealers, always gather as much information as you can from several sources (books, forums, web, collectors) to help make your own decisions, and never stop learning!

Does anyone have a source for 11 mm German?  

Thanks a bunch! 

Hi everyone,   I’m Elias Harker, and I’ve recently started diving into the world of collecting rare WWII artifacts. There’s something incredibly exciting about holding a piece of history and imagining the stories behind it—it’s like a direct link to the past.   Since I’m new to this, I’m still learning the ropes, especially when it comes to authenticating items and understanding their full context. If anyone has advice or tips, I’d be so grateful! Honestly, I’m just excited to connect with others who share this passion and maybe swap stories along the way.   Looking forward to getting to know you all!

Yes, and a bunch of really great guys as well. Here is an interview we did with Chris at my museum in 2022.   Scott               

Thank you! I passed it along to my friend.