Patriotic collectibles can be as diverse as any other collectible field but if they’re extremely old, dating back to the beginning of this country, they’re probably in museums. One of the most affordable,patriotic collectibles would be ‘Sweetheart’ jewelry popularized inWorld Wars I and II. To display patriotism and pride in a loved one serving in the military, jewelry reflecting the branches of military service were worn my mothers, sisters, and ‘sweethearts.’ Sons, brothers, and boyfriends bought mementos overseas and sent them home to their loved ones. Since most metals were being used for the war effort for weapons and war machinery, the jewelry was often made abroad or constructed from inexpensive materials like celluloid, plastic, and wood, but finer materials like mother-of-pearl and gold were also used. Sterling silver pieces from World War II were most likely made outside the United States.
The jewelry consisted of everything from figurals depicting military personnel in uniform, eagles, and replicas of the ‘hardware’ worn by servicemen like sergeant stripes and air force wings. ‘Service’ pins were especially popular, featuring a star for each family member serving in active duty. Pins with three stars or more are especially rare, and the color of the star is significant. Blue stars reflected active duty, silver stars indicated that a loved one was wounded in action, and a gold star signified that a loved one had made the ultimate sacrifice.
As with most collectibles, Sweetheart jewelry is considered a dual collectible. Collectors of militaria and service symbols have traditionally been attracted to Sweetheart jewelry, but avid jewelry collectors are now adding these sentimental tributes to their collections. Since 911 this market has continued to rise with the surge of patriotism, but likewise, so have the prices as demand will always drive the price upward. Even in a recessed economy, if in good condition, Sweetheart jewelry commands respectable prices. A World War I celluloid sailor pin was priced at a $199 ‘Buy It Now” price on eBay; gold pins over $100, and Sterling pins between $35 and $50 depending on the size. There are two excellent books on Sweetheart jewelry, both written by the same author, Nick Snider… Antique Sweetheart Jewelry and Sweetheart Jewelry and Collectibles, published by Schiffer Book for
Collectors.
Pictured is an assortment of Sweetheart jewelry from dealers at the Spring Antique Mall and from some of the collectors who buy from them.
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