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Ferrous and non-ferrous metals

Some families may have metallic items such as shell cases, pieces of shrapnel, and military hardware including daggers and badges. Sometimes these have special memories attached to them for they represent a particular action or set of circumstances.

At one time it was not uncommon for veterans and others to hold weaponry items. However, changes to licencing regulations may no longer permit guns or pistols to be retained. If in doubt, you should check on the laws applicable in your State or Territory.

Material such as shell cases, ammunition boxes and tin cans were popular items for a wide range of artistic work. Some fine examples of craftsmanship are held by the major war museums. Ashtrays and vases made from the brass cases of large calibre guns are common, and something as odd as a pocket knife made from a .303 bullet and piece of hacksaw blade is not unknown.

Defused hand grenades are sometimes found as paperweights and, from more recent conflicts, items such as aircraft and ship clocks can form part of a family's memorabilia holdings.

If you do have ammunition of any calibre, grenades or mortar bombs or similar items and you are not absolutely sure that all explosive material has been removed, seek expert advice immediately.

Items made of iron or steel are prone to rust. A very thin coating of a fine oil, such as sewing machine oil, wiped on sparingly with a cloth, will help prevent deterioration on exposed surfaces. The oil should only be put on the bare metal, not on any other part of the item.

Brass and copper tarnish easily.

Depending on the individual item, the oxidation process can be prevented by coating a freshly-cleaned item with a protective lacquer. Most hardware stores sell a suitable product.

Repairs to clocks may still be possible by some watchmakers, but the introduction of digital timepieces has led to fewer people being trained in the craft. Your local jeweller may be able to provide information about nearby qualified horologists.

For most of these kinds of memorabilia items, the general rules for care and conservation apply. If you are unsure about how to care for any particular item, seek advice from one of the institutions listed at the end of this booklet.