Trench art is one of the most fascinating and personal forms of military collectables. Unlike standard military equipment or medals, every piece of trench art tells two stories—the story of war and the story of the individual who transformed a discarded object into something beautiful or practical.
From decorated artillery shell casings and cigarette lighters to vases, letter openers, jewellery, and sculptures, trench art has become highly sought after by collectors worldwide. This guide explores its origins, identifies the different types, explains how to authenticate genuine examples, and offers advice on building a meaningful collection.
What is Trench Art?
Trench art refers to decorative or functional objects created from military-related materials, most commonly during or shortly after times of war.
Despite its name, not all trench art was made in the trenches. Pieces were created by:
- Soldiers during quiet periods at the front
- Prisoners of war
- Military workshops
- Civilians living near battlefields
- Professional craftsmen using surplus military materials after the war
The practice dates back centuries but reached its peak during World War I (1914–1918) and remained popular throughout World War II.
The History of Trench Art
Before World War I
Military souvenirs have existed for centuries.
Examples include:
- Napoleonic War relics
- Crimean War souvenirs
- American Civil War bullet carvings
However, these pieces were generally uncommon.
World War I
World War I produced millions of spent shell cases, bullets, shrapnel fragments and other military materials.
Soldiers often had long periods between combat.
Many spent this time making:
- Cigarette lighters
- Vases
- Ink wells
- Candlesticks
- Letter openers
- Picture frames
- Rings
- Brooches
These objects became souvenirs sent home to families or reminders of survival.
World War II
The tradition continued.
WWII trench art often includes:
- Aircraft aluminium
- Brass shell casings
- Tank parts
- Bullet casings
- Aircraft instruments
- Naval brass fittings
Japanese, German, British, French, Australian and American examples are all commonly found.
Why is it Called Trench Art?
The term is slightly misleading.
Many pieces were never made inside trenches.
Instead they were produced:
- In military camps
- Behind front lines
- Hospitals
- POW camps
- Workshops
- Homes after the war
Today, “trench art” simply describes decorative objects made from military materials.
Common Materials
Collectors will encounter many different materials.
Brass
The most common.
Usually from:
- Artillery shell cases
- Naval shell casings
- Cartridge cases
Brass develops an attractive golden patina over time.
Aluminium
Often sourced from:
- Aircraft
- Mess kits
- Military equipment
Popular during WWII.
Copper
Found on:
- Fuse components
- Electrical fittings
- Decorative inlays
Steel
Common in:
- Helmets
- Bayonets
- Machine parts
Lead
Used for:
- Bullet carvings
- Miniature figures
Wood
Often incorporated into:
- Walking sticks
- Boxes
- Frames
Most Popular Types of Trench Art
1. Decorated Shell Cases
Probably the most iconic form.
Usually decorated with:
- Flowers
- Leaves
- Roses
- National emblems
- Military insignia
- Dates
Many were created using repoussé (hammered relief work).
These make excellent display pieces.
2. Trench Art Lighters
Highly collectable.
Made from:
- Bullet cases
- Artillery shells
- Aluminium
- Brass
Popular styles include:
- Lift-arm
- Petrol lighters
- Automatic mechanisms
- Shell casing conversions
French and British examples are particularly desirable.
3. Letter Openers
Often made from:
- Bayonets
- Shell fragments
Some feature engraved:
- Regimental names
- Battles
- Dates
4. Match Holders
Decorative yet practical.
Frequently feature:
- Artillery shell bases
- Military crests
5. Vases
Among the most decorative examples.
Typically made from:
- French 75mm shell cases
- British 18-pounder shell cases
- German shell cases
Many display intricate floral repoussé decoration.
6. Ashtrays
Often created using:
- Shell bases
- Bullet cases
Popular with collectors of vintage tobacciana.
7. Jewellery
Includes:
- Rings
- Bracelets
- Brooches
- Pendants
Sometimes crafted from coins or aircraft aluminium.
8. Models and Sculptures
These include:
- Tanks
- Aircraft
- Cannons
- Soldiers
- Animals
Often handmade and unique.
Famous Shell Casings Used
Collectors often identify trench art by shell size.
Popular examples include:
| Shell Type | Country |
|---|---|
| French 75mm | France |
| British 18-Pounder | Britain |
| German 77mm | Germany |
| American 75mm | USA |
| Australian examples | Usually British manufacture |
The shell base usually includes:
- Date
- Manufacturer
- Calibre
- Arsenal marks
These markings help date a piece.
How to Identify Genuine Trench Art
Look for:
Genuine Military Components
Authentic pieces often retain:
- Arsenal stamps
- Dates
- Inspection marks
Hand Tool Marks
Original pieces show:
- Hammer marks
- Chisel marks
- Punch work
Machine-perfect decoration may indicate later reproduction.
Natural Patina
Older brass develops:
- Soft golden tones
- Dark recesses
Bright polished surfaces may have been recently cleaned.
Wear
Expect:
- Minor dents
- Scratches
- Oxidation
Perfect condition is uncommon.
What Makes Trench Art Valuable?
Collectors pay premiums for:
Provenance
Items with documented military history.
Battlefield Association
Examples connected to famous campaigns.
Decorative Quality
Intricate repoussé work dramatically increases value.
Rare Materials
Aircraft aluminium and naval pieces often command higher prices.
Originality
Untouched examples are generally preferred.
Common Reproductions
Modern reproductions exist.
Watch for:
- Laser engraving
- Artificial ageing
- Modern brass
- Reproduction shell cases
Always inspect the base markings carefully.
Caring for Trench Art
Avoid:
- Heavy polishing
- Abrasive cleaners
- Harsh chemicals
Instead:
- Dust regularly
- Store in dry conditions
- Handle with clean hands or cotton gloves
- Preserve the natural patina whenever possible
Over-cleaning can reduce both historical integrity and collector value.
Starting a Collection
Many collectors specialise in:
- WWI trench art
- WWII trench art
- French shell cases
- British shell cases
- Military lighters
- Naval trench art
- Aviation trench art
- Australian military souvenirs
Building a themed collection often makes it more meaningful and visually appealing.
Investment Potential
Interest in authentic trench art has steadily grown as collectors increasingly value objects with a direct connection to military history. Handcrafted pieces made from identifiable wartime materials—particularly decorated French 75mm shell cases, trench lighters, and items with regimental or battlefield provenance—can command strong prices. While condition and rarity remain important, originality and historical authenticity are often the key drivers of long-term value.
Final Thoughts
Trench art offers a unique perspective on the human side of conflict. Rather than celebrating warfare itself, these handcrafted objects reflect creativity, resilience, and the desire to transform the remnants of war into lasting keepsakes. Whether it’s an intricately decorated artillery shell vase, a handmade brass lighter, or a finely engraved letter opener, each piece carries its own story and provides a tangible connection to the past.
For collectors, trench art combines history, artistry, and craftsmanship in a way few other military collectables can. With careful research, attention to authenticity, and an appreciation for the individual stories behind each item, building a trench art collection can be both rewarding and historically significant.
