As I continue to refine my collection, I often find myself in a position to sell off items that are outside the scope of the areas I wish to focus on. In many instances, the items are generic and pretty simple to sell. Others are more difficult.
A few years ago, I picked up what I thought would be an early BW Dienstmütze (modern version of the M-43). It turned out to be an officer's cap from a Labor Service Unit -- essentially US-run, contracted quasi-military organization which provided support to the Army and USAF in the early postwar years.
Short version: I have a cap from an organization outside the scope of my collection and I wish to sell it. From what I understand, LSU items are pretty scarce. Officer items even more so. I've never seen one of these caps for sale other than the one I have. So, what's fair value? The obvious answer is that it's worth whatever someone is williing to pay for it. Nice from an anecdotal standpoint but not helpful in the real world.
Which brings me to you, my esteemed collector colleagues! I welcome your opinions. Best guess at a fair value?
The cap itself is better made than the Bundeswehr versions. The interior is a satin/rayon material with padding/insulation to the sides and crown of the cap. The officer silver braid is the wartime, twisted-cord type. In lieu of frnt buttons, the cap uses two black metal snap fasteners (likely Prym but I've not looked). There is a half-moon leather sweatband and US-style label (these were contract items via the US government).
A few years ago, I picked up what I thought would be an early BW Dienstmütze (modern version of the M-43). It turned out to be an officer's cap from a Labor Service Unit -- essentially US-run, contracted quasi-military organization which provided support to the Army and USAF in the early postwar years.
Short version: I have a cap from an organization outside the scope of my collection and I wish to sell it. From what I understand, LSU items are pretty scarce. Officer items even more so. I've never seen one of these caps for sale other than the one I have. So, what's fair value? The obvious answer is that it's worth whatever someone is williing to pay for it. Nice from an anecdotal standpoint but not helpful in the real world.
Which brings me to you, my esteemed collector colleagues! I welcome your opinions. Best guess at a fair value?
The cap itself is better made than the Bundeswehr versions. The interior is a satin/rayon material with padding/insulation to the sides and crown of the cap. The officer silver braid is the wartime, twisted-cord type. In lieu of frnt buttons, the cap uses two black metal snap fasteners (likely Prym but I've not looked). There is a half-moon leather sweatband and US-style label (these were contract items via the US government).
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