General questions/ comments on GDR awards

[Greg Collins]

More of a comment rather than a question to start this thread off; having started with collecting Soviet awards and watching the incredible price rise followed by an availability dry-up, then moving to Mongolian awards and seeing virtually the same thing, I have moved on to East German awards. I did this for a few reasons: first, I was in Germany during the building of the Wall (1959-1961) and watched it come down on t.v. so it's kind of a homecoming... second, I don't see a lot of competition at present and... third, I have a source that works where I work which is very convenient (he was there when the Wall came down and had money to spend- ex US Air Force).

I have decided to focus on items primarily evolving around the Staatssicherheits (Stasi) or State Security. Hence, I am actively collecting Stasi, Police and Militia medals and badges and associated reading materials. I may, at some point, go toward the Border Guard, but not at present.

I don't know how many of "us" have chosen to go toward the East German end of things, but would enjoy hearing from you from time to time. I have several sources which I have used and will share if interested (aren't I generous?). Once I get my camera recharged, I'll post some items from my collection on the forum- some of the items are reasonably interesting. Until then...