Are you captivated by the echoes of history, the tangible remnants of valor and conflict? The world of military antiques offers a portal to the past, a chance to hold history in your hands and connect with the stories of those who shaped it.
The digital shelves have recently been refreshed, on the evening of March 23rd, 2025, with the addition of a selection of new items. Collectors are encouraged to explore the "New Items" button, then scroll through the past 365 days to view the complete inventory. Upcoming highlights include a May update featuring a newly acquired collection of Japanese militaria and a June update dedicated to commemorating the 250th birthday of the United States Army. This promises to be an exciting year for enthusiasts, with opportunities to acquire and appreciate significant pieces of military history.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Larry and Terri Stewart |
| Profession | Owners of Stewart's Military Antiques |
| Business Focus | Antique military items, from Civil War to WWII; 19th-century photography |
| Experience | Nearly 50 years in the field |
| Specialty | Authentic and rare military collectibles, including sweetheart jewelry, field art, and photography |
| Location | Clarkdale, Arizona |
| Online Presence | Stewart's Military Antiques Website |
| Key Activities | Displaying collections, discussing military history, authenticating items, and providing quality collectibles for collectors and historians. They offer items seldom offered elsewhere. |
Larry and Terri Stewart's passion for antique military items is not merely a business; it's a dedication, a deep-seated respect for the past. Their online catalog acts as a showcase of their treasures. These pieces include everything from Civil War relics to artifacts from World War II, sweetheart jewelry, field art, and an array of historical photographs. The Stewarts understand that collecting militaria is about more than just acquiring objects; it's about preserving history, appreciating the stories behind each item, and connecting with the individuals who lived through pivotal moments in time. Their commitment to providing quality collectibles and unusual examples of 19th-century photography is evident in every carefully selected piece.
For nearly five decades, the Stewarts have immersed themselves in the world of militaria, and their wealth of experience allows them to offer items rarely found elsewhere, catering to both seasoned collectors and those new to the hobby. A cornerstone of their business is the authentication process, a critical aspect of militaria collecting. Recognizing that reproductions are prevalent, the Stewarts provide expertise in determining the originality of each piece, ensuring that collectors can acquire authentic items.
This community is a welcoming space for enthusiasts and collectors alike, designed to share their collections, delve into military history, and collaboratively assess the authenticity of items. The Stewarts actively encourage sharing display your own acquisitions, and join the conversation. Whether you're looking to add to your own personal collection or simply share knowledge and appreciation, all collectors and items are welcome.
The Stewarts' dedication to the field is also evident in their physical presence. Larry typically participates in the Phoenix Militaria & Antique Gun Show, where he showcases his items and connects with fellow collectors and enthusiasts. The anticipation for the next show underscores the importance of these events for those passionate about military history. It is a place to gather, exchange information, and celebrate the shared interest in the history that surrounds them.
The world of militaria collecting extends beyond any single focus. A spouse's collection doesn't have to be limited to the same subject matter. Terri Stewart, for instance, collects pieces of 19th-century photography with a specific interest in subjects. This demonstrates that a collection of militaria can be part of a larger world of collecting.
The address for Stewart's Military Antiques is 9 S. 9th Street #98, Clarkdale, AZ 86324. This location serves as a central hub for their business, and a place for their connections with the community.
Beyond the Stewarts, several other businesses and organizations contribute to the landscape of military collectibles. Iron Horse Military Antiques offers a wide array of items, including Civil War documents, letters, images, militaria, uniform items, edged weapons, firearms, relics, and books. They also buy and sell both individual items and entire collections. The Dogface Soldier's offers an extensive inventory, encompassing medals, helmets, flags, edged weapons, uniforms, field gear, and more, continually adding new collectibles. For those seeking specific or rare items, they can arrange special orders. These are just a few examples of the diverse community of dealers and collectors working to preserve and share military history.
The dedication of individuals like Larry and Terri Stewart, coupled with the resources offered by businesses like Iron Horse Military Antiques and The Dogface Soldier's, provide a multifaceted and engaging landscape for enthusiasts. Collectors are invited to become part of a passionate community dedicated to the preservation, study, and appreciation of military history. Explore the collections, share your own, and help to keep the stories of the past alive.
The importance of authenticity in militaria collecting cannot be overstated. The ability to distinguish between original artifacts and reproductions is critical. This community provides a place to learn and grow in expertise. By fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing, it ensures that the items are what they are claimed to be. It also strengthens the bonds between collectors, creating a network of expertise and mutual respect for the history they preserve.
The environment of shared knowledge and mutual respect is as important to the hobby as the items themselves. The ability to connect with fellow enthusiasts and discuss the context and significance of each piece adds to the value of the items themselves.
In Doylestown, Pennsylvania, in the 1950s, the impact of WWII was still very real. Young Larry Stewart, even at a young age, was fascinated by the stories. This early exposure, including the conversations he overheard regarding an SS officer's white tunic, shaped his lifelong interest. This early childhood glimpse into the world of militaria is a reminder that passion can be sparked by the smallest details.
