The One (or more) That Got Away.

[carpediem]

I figured that because I really do enjoy hearing people's stories and I suspect that some interesting stories could be shared around this topic, it would make a good thread.

In the time you have been collecting, what pieces slipped through your fingers? Not just ones that you maybe had to sell or trade, but ones you really wanted that when you went to buy them, alas, you had been bested by someone faster.

The second scenario is almost constant in this digital morass. If you don't act quickly in many cases, you are too late.

What about your experiences?
Please, share away!

[MAP]

First scenario: swapped a non matching G33 for a salty DD Luft M35. Regretted it before it even left my house. Early years of collecting. Rookie mistake.

Second scenario: An early excellent condition Luft Pilot/Observer badge. Thought too long and poof... it was gone. Only a few months ago. Otherwise...have never ever missed a buy I really cared about.

[carpediem]

swapped a non matching G33 for a salty DD Luft M35.

Ha ha! And that guy RAN to his car!

[CBH]

Started working at a local antique in High School and the owner had just sold this group (Photo) cheaply, he would often say he thought about keep one of each because of the multiplies ! This still haunts me and the funny thing is I was talking to guy who purchased it tonight at a local military museum I volunteer at, I almost brought up this group buts its been 30 years.

Also traded a Water Protection Police Daggers for an SA Dagger and an HJ armband when I was a young collector, but that guys dead now. I've been meaning to piss on his grave.

[MAP]

Started working at a local antique in High School and the owner had just sold this group (Photo) cheaply, he would often say he thought about keep one of each because of the multiplies ! This still haunts me and the funny thing is I was talking to guy who purchased it tonight at a local military museum I volunteer at, I almost brought up this group buts its been 30 years.

Also traded a Water Protection Police Daggers for an SA Dagger and an HJ armband when I was a young collector, but that guys dead now. I've been meaning to piss on his grave.

I'd be having nightmares for missing that one!!!!

[carpediem]

Started working at a local antique in High School and the owner had just sold this group (Photo) cheaply, he would often say he thought about keep one of each because of the multiplies ! This still haunts me and the funny thing is I was talking to guy who purchased it tonight at a local military museum I volunteer at, I almost brought up this group buts its been 30 years.

Also traded a Water Protection Police Daggers for an SA Dagger and an HJ armband when I was a young collector, but that guys dead now. I've been meaning to piss on his grave.

I would regret not buying that too. Wow, the Water Protection Police daggers have to be worth more than an SA Dagger and HJ armband! He got a good deal!

[Chopperman]

30 years ago, I was at a gun show and was offered a chrome plated Fairbairn-Sykes
style dagger for $125. Like I said, it was chrome plated and was marked "Japan Sword".
I told the guy that I was not interested in fakes. So some time later, I discovered that this
was a US Special Forces presentation dagger given to SF troopers after completing their tour
of duty in VN. -- Now, nice ones cost about 10 times that amount and I still don't have one.

I was young and dumb.

[Chopperman]

My other big regret was missing an original 1813 iron cross 1st class.
I found an original 1813 Ek1 and Ek2 on ebay. (yes, Ebay) It was a group
that contained both crosses and a fancy silver coat of arms device all belonging
to the same man. I was lacking funds so the seller agreed to split the set and
sell me just The Ek2. With only 638 officially awarded, it is one of the holy grails
of iron crosses. I could have bought the entire group then for just what the Ek2 demands now.

[carpediem]

My other big regret was missing an original 1813 iron cross 1st class.
I found an original 1813 Ek1 and Ek2 on ebay. (yes, Ebay) It was a group
that contained both crosses and a fancy silver coat of arms device all belonging
to the same man. I was lacking funds so the seller agreed to split the set and
sell me just The Ek2. With only 638 officially awarded, it is one of the holy grails
of iron crosses. I could have bought the entire group then for just what the Ek2 demands now.

It is tough when the item is right there and your bank account doesn't cooperate!

[CBH]

Wow, the Water Protection Police daggers have to be worth more than an SA Dagger and HJ armband! He got a good deal

Yes indeed, it was't that he got a good deal, it was me getting screwed !
I was High School kid and he was a Vet, no honour among Thieves.