Militaria of Other Wars
While the two world wars tend to steal the spotlight in American militaria collections, there is substantial opportunity to collect antique items from other wars, as well. As a collector, you could specialize in a particular item from a particular war, or you could make your collection as broad as possible. Use these resources to get started.
The Civil War
Civil War militaria, as you might imagine, is not for the novice collector. You will likely be paying quite a bit for each item, so you should verify its authenticity and condition as thoroughly as possible before purchasing. Keep in mind that materials and techniques used to manufacture Civil War uniforms will be entirely different from the materials comprising Civil War replicas, used by re-enactors or Hollywood. You should have a microscope with you whenever you go to meet a Civil War militaria dealer or receive a new purchase in the mail, and learn to know what you are looking for.
Old South Military Antiques specializes in Confederate memorabilia, like a Charleston Depot Butternut Enlisted Jacket (selling for $48,000) and a "Sword Passed Down in the William J. McElroy Family" ($27,000.) More inexpensive items include a Cavalry Carbine Cartridge Box for $2,200.
The Korean War
One militaria dealer that still remembers this "forgotten war" is Rally Point Militaria. Here, you can purchase a pilot's flight suit, an airborne reserve parachute and a Marine Corps dress blouse. Korean War memorabilia is not terribly popular, so you may be able to start a collection for relatively little cost and reap the rewards if the market ever increases its demand.
The Vietnam War
Military antiques and collectibles from the Vietnam War have a different connotation than militaria from older wars. With the events of Vietnam relatively recent, the American collector is much more likely to have a personal connection to the war, and thus may take particular pride in his or her collection. Also, Vietnam militaria has the advantage of being more inexpensive than militaria from other 20th century wars, so it may be a good entry point for beginners.
When buying online, start with Moore Militaria, your "One Stop Nam Shop." You can visit them if you live anywhere near College Station, Texas, or just browse their website. They have many categories of Vietnam militaria. In their "One of a Kind" category, you can find mosquito nets, leather helmets for paratroopers, and Claymore mine bags. You can even buy vintage insect repellant and foot powder for $20.