30 Charming and Thoughtful Gifts for History Buffs
Are you planning to buy a gift for a loved one who is passionate about history but not sure what to get? Here are the best gifts for history buffs!
Do you know someone passionate about history? Are you looking to buy them a gift? Buying gifts for history buffs can be confusing sometimes, especially if you don’t share their interests! But not to worry, you’ve come to the right place!
First, you have some homework to do; find out which era or topic they love the most.
History covers an extensive range of periods and topics, from dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, the colonial era, and modern world history. And of course, they’ll prefer gifts related to their interests.
Disclaimer* This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our privacy policy for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet
After doing your research, then you can start listing some gift ideas. Books are always the go-to option for history buffs; you can find one on just about any topic! History nerds will love any gift that can help them broaden their history knowledge.
That said, books aren’t your only option. There are other impressive history gifts you can get. Curious? Here are 30 charming and thoughtful gifts that history buffs will treasure.
Best Gifts for History Buffs
In no particular order, here are the coolest gifts for history lovers.
1. F*cking History Book
Any diehard history enthusiast knows that censorship is widespread in schools and history textbooks. And what does that mean? It gets boring! That’s why they need to read the F*cking History Book!
The book contains 111 of the most insane and exciting moments in history. Everything is told in a hilarious and brutally honest way of storytelling.
Filled with countless interesting information and facts, they’re bound to learn something new. This book will be a priceless addition to their collection!
2. The Greatest Stories Never Told Book
Not every part of history gets the same treatment. Some stories are barely told. Some even run the risk of getting erased from the records for all eternity. The Greatest Stories Never Told book helps bring light to those obscure tales.
This book contains 100 obscure yet astonishing moments from history that are worth knowing. Accompanied by hundreds of photographs, illustrations, and maps, this book is a visual delight for history lovers.
Psst, even the most well-versed history buff will discover something new from this book!
3. Bad Days in History Book
History isn’t just about victorious armies and glorious kings. The course of history is also influenced by a string of bad days, misfortune, and mayhem.
For history buffs who have a knack for drama and chaos, the Bad Days in History book might just be what they need!
Filled with 365 history tales of misery, they can discover something new and fun each day of the year.
And, of course, each story is told in a delightfully entertaining way. It’s a wonderfully morbid yet hilarious book to add to a history lover’s ever-growing collection!
4. Aristotle and Homer Bust Bookends
Every bookshelf needs a bookend. And there are no better bookends for your historian buddy than the legends of literature themselves, Aristotle and Homer!
With immaculate detailing and gorgeous plaster finish, these bookends look like they just came out of a museum.
They’re made of high-quality resin, so they’re sturdy enough to hold up even the heaviest classics.
5. Ides of March Pencil Holder
Et Vous, Brute? Let your historian buddy pretend they’re Brutus with this Julius Caesar pencil holder.
The infamous Roman Emperor visage is perfectly rendered into this pencil holder. Made of heavyweight, painted resin, it looks almost as if it came straight from a museum!
Except, of course, a real bust from a museum wouldn’t have pencils sticking out of the back.
Regardless, it’s a hilarious yet functional gift that’d look amazing at any history buff’s desk!
6. Greek Amphora Goddess Artemis
Do you know a history buff who’s obsessed with pottery or home decor? If so, then this Greek amphora will be the perfect gift for them!
This amphora depicts the Goddess Artemis, the protector of motherhood, youth, purity, and childbirth.
Every little detail on this amphora was meticulously painted, to the point that it looks like it came from a Greek temple ruin. It will look divine as a dining table centerpiece or a historian’s office decoration.
7. Weekly Historic Mail
Imagine being pen pals with Nikola Tesla or discussing the Civil War with Abraham Lincoln. Any history buff will do anything for an opportunity like that.
Let them catch a glimpse of their favorite historical figures’ lives with this Historic Mail subscription.
Your historian buddy will receive an authentic letter from various historical figures every week. And, of course, the devil is in the details. Every letter is packaged in a historically accurate envelope, so they’ll know when it’s in the mail.
8. Boston Tea Party Set
The Boston Tea Party is one of the most famous historical moments. But while everyone knows what events led to it, not everyone knows which tea variants were involved.
This tea sampler set features five tea varieties that were thrown overboard during the momentous protest. The set also comes with various information and details about Boston Tea Party and the teas themselves.
Delicious and interesting, tea-loving history buffs will love having this tea sampler set to accompany them in the afternoon.
9. Royal Albert 100 Years Anniversary Teacup Set
Why not get some lovely teacups to accompany the tea sampler from before? Sure, these Royal Albert teacups don’t come from the same period; they’re reproductions of vintage teacups from 1900-1940. Regardless, they still look stunning!
These teacups were made to celebrate Royal Albert’s 100th Anniversary. Each teacup has a uniquely timeless and enchanting design fit for royalty.
There’s no tea-loving historian out there who wouldn’t love these teacups! They’ll feel like they have a piece of history in their own home.
10. Personalized Historical Portrait
Any history buff has probably imagined having their portrait painted like royalties from the past. But no one wants to pose for hours and get a sore back just to get a painting of themselves.
So, why not just get them a personalized historical portrait that’s just as impressive?
All you have to do is pick the portrait size you want and submit a photo of the recipient. That’s it! Now your favorite historian will get a gorgeous painting to hang over their mantelpiece. It’s definitely one of the best gifts for the history buff!
11. Antique World Map
Just one look at this antique map, and you’ll understand why circumnavigating the globe was a huge deal back then.
This antique map was created in 1651 by one of the founding fathers of cartography, John Speed. It’s a beautiful and rare map that any collector or history nerd will treasure.
Additionally, you can add a custom message at the bottom of the map. It’s a little but thoughtful detail that will make this gift even more charming.
12. Antique Sundial Compass
The adventurers of the past didn’t have the luxury of using Google Maps. That’s why they needed this sundial compass.
This compass is a historical reproduction of the antique sundial, Diptych of Nuremberg from the 1640s. It’s functional, but it will also look amazing sitting on a shelf or the mantelpiece with such a stunning design.
This sundial compass will make a wonderful gift for history buffs who are obsessed with adventures and geography!
13. History Hoard Ancient Coin Collection
Money has been a catalyst for countless historical moments since the beginning of civilization. It’s an essential part of human history. And that’s precisely why a history buff will be thrilled to receive this collection of ancient coins.
It contains six coins from ancient empires, including Greece, Rome, Judea, Arabia, China, and India. Each coin has been inspected by professionals and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Displayed beautifully in an acrylic holder, this collection will look lovely on their desk!
14. Venture in History Paper Money
First invented during the Song Dynasty in China, paper money is one of the most important inventions in human history.
It has made significant impacts on world history since then. So, why not let your historian buddy relish in its history with this Paper Money Subscription box?
Each month, they’ll receive 7 or more genuine paper money from all corners of the world. Fun, educational, and most importantly, profitable, this is one of the best gifts for history lovers who are also antique collectors.
15. The Sacred Wine Set of Cleopatra
In Ancient Egypt, wine was reserved for the royals and the Gods themselves. Of course, these days, anyone can enjoy wine but why not make it more special with this luxurious Ancient Egyptian wine set?
It consists of a copper pitcher, six cups, and a serving tray. Made to resemble genuine artifacts, this wine set is adorned with Egyptian hieroglyphs and scenes depicting the Egyptian pantheon.
It is 100% handmade and guaranteed to dazzle anyone who sees it. Any Egyptophile will be thrilled to receive this wine set!
16. Natural Quartz Egyptian Cat Statue
If there’s anything we have in common with Ancient Egyptians, it’s our love for cats. So, if you know any Egyptophile who also loves cats, then this is the perfect gift for them!
The statue is made in the image of the Goddess Bastet, the protector of women, children, and family.
Carved from natural stone, each sculpture has its own unique charm. Lovely and colorful, it will look amazing as a mantelpiece decor.
17. Ankh Pendant Necklace
The Ankh is one of the most significant symbols in Ancient Egypt. Also known as the Knot of Isis, the Ankh represents protection and life. That’s why giving it to someone you love means wishing them well.
Any Egypt-loving history buff would be thrilled to receive an Ankh necklace. Made from gold-plated sterling silver, this necklace is durable and hypoallergenic.
You can also have the recipient’s name engraved on the pendant, making it an even sweeter gift.
18. Egyptian Hieroglyphs Cookie Cutters Set
Is there anything better than a batch of decadent sugar cookies? Why, Egyptian-themed cookies, of course! These hieroglyph cookie cutters are among the best and most functional gifts for a history buff who also has a knack for baking.
The set contains eight cutters with various designs, from the Eye of Horus, the Ankh, the Scarab, and more!
And who knows, maybe they’ll make you some delicious Egyptian cookies as well! It’s a gift that keeps on giving!
19. Solstice Ceramic Candle Holder
Stonehenge is the most famous stone circle in the entire world, but it’s not the only one. There are countless smaller stone circles scattered across Britain and Ireland, each holding its own mystery.
This unique candle holder is inspired by those stone circles, symbolizing spirituality, power, and magic.
When a candle is lit in the middle of the circle, the standing stones will cast shadows perfect for a solstice celebration. It’s the ideal gift for history lovers and archaeology addicts!
20. Irish Inspired Soy Wax Candles
While you’re at it, why not get some scented candles for your historian pal as well? These Irish-inspired candles will give off mysterious yet intoxicating fragrances.
This set consists of three unique candles inspired by the legendary St. Patrick, the Goddes Morrígan, and the mythology of Tír na nÓg. These hand-poured candles are made with a wooden wick, which gives off a delightful crackling sound when lit.
History buffs will love having this candle to accompany them as they’re doing their latest history research!
21. Mead Making Kit
One of humanity’s first attempts at alcoholic drinks, mead is created with fermented honey.
It’s been a well-beloved beverage for millions of people since the beginning of civilization. Help the history buff in your life make their own mead with this DIY set.
The kit includes everything they need, including a plastic fermenter, an airlock, siphons, and yeast. It also comes with a mead-making book that contains instructions on how to use the kit and various delicious mead recipes.
22. Personalized Drinking Horn
Mead plays a massive role in Norse mythology. Mead is said to be the beverage of the Gods, and Vikings often drink it during large festivals or celebrations.
After making their own mead, why not give your historian buddy something cool to drink it from?
This drinking horn is made from polished natural horn, and it truly looks like something out of a fantasy book!
It also comes with a convenient wooden holder that can be engraved with the recipient’s name. It’s guaranteed to make any history nerd feel like a real Viking!
23. Rosie The Riveter Watch
Rosie the Riveter is one of the most famous pop-culture figures in history. She symbolized the heroic way women supported war efforts back in the WWII era.
And while posters of Rosie are a bit overrated these days, this watch is definitely one of the best gifts for history buffs!
The vintage Rosie the Riveter design is combined with a sleek and modern leather band, giving the watch an air of sophistication. Moreover, it uses a high-end quartz movement, providing accurate timekeeping at all times.
24. Herstory Museum Jigsaw Puzzle
Most jigsaw puzzles can be boring, except for this one! Give your historian buddy something fun to play with, like this Herstory Museum Jigsaw Puzzle.
Featuring the eye-pleasing art of Ana San Jose, this puzzle reveals a gallery wall of famous women throughout history.
Decorated with gold foil, this puzzle would also look amazing adorning their wall after it’s assembled.
25. Encyclopedia Mythologica: Gods and Heroes Pop-Up Book
For young historians, almost nothing is as extraordinary as the ancient gods and heroes. Nurture their curiosity and love of knowledge with this fantastic pop-up Encyclopedia Mythologica book.
From Ra’s rule over Egypt to the Jade Emperor’s beautiful palace, this book offers countless myths and legends about Greek, Roman, Norse, Egyptian, Eastern, and New World Gods.
With gorgeous pop-ups along and a lighthearted narrative, this book is sure to be a hit with young history buffs!
26. History-Inspired Time-Travelling Activity Box
Here’s another gift idea for little history buffs! Developed by a passionate primary school teacher, this educational activity box will keep them busy for the entire day while nurturing their love of history.
This activity box’s theme is Ancient Egypt. It’s about two kids traveling back in time to Ancient Egypt to solve a mystery.
It also features fun trinkets, such as a bookmark, stickers, coloring sheets, puzzles, and more!
27. Chronology – The Game Where You Make History
Which one comes first, mayo, sliced bread, or decaf coffee? Do you know a history buff who seems to know everything? Then they’ll adore this game!
Chronology is a card game that challenges players to build the correct timeline. With 429 cards and 858 events, this game will be a great challenge, even to the most avid history enthusiasts.
Simple yet challenging, this game will make group trivia nights even more exciting!
28. Quill Pen Ink Set
Quill pens have been used from the 6th century until the 19th century. They have also been depicted in a large number of historical movies and series.
And that’s precisely why a lot of history buffs are curious about them. So, why not give them one?
This calligraphy set comes with a gorgeous quill pen, a bottle of ink, and other calligraphy essentials they’ll ever need.
Your historian buddy will feel like a monk copying manuscripts by the candle’s glow with this calligraphy set.
29. Established Titles
It would be a lie for a history nerd to say they’ve never imagined what it would be like for them to become royalty themselves. So, why not make that imagination a reality?
With Established Titles, you can buy a plot of 1, 5, or 10 square feet of land in their name. That way, they’ll receive a Scottish lordship or ladyship.
Okay, so these titles may not be able to give them an audience with the Queen, but it will definitely make them feel like royalty!
30. Ancestry.com DNA Kit
Help the history buff in your life open a special new page in history; their own! Family history research is growing in popularity these days, and Ancestry.com is one of the best tools for it.
You can get your historian buddy a DNA kit to help them discover their true ethnicities. You can also sign them up to get a membership.
That way, they can build their family tree, get hints about their ancestors’ lives, and even meet potential relatives out there.
This is one of the best gift ideas for history buffs who wish to know where they came from and how.
Final Thoughts on the Best History lover Gifts
And there you have it! Thirty charming and thoughtful gifts for history nerds in your life! We hope this guide has helped you find some fantastic gift ideas.
Whether they’re a history novice or a pro historian, you really can’t go wrong with any of these history gift ideas!
Which gifts will you be putting on your list? Anyway, don’t be stressed. After all, it’s the thought that matters the most. So, have fun and happy shopping!
More gift ideas to help you choose the perfect gift for your loved one
- Cool gift for dolphin lovers
- Unique gifts for bee lovers
- Cool gifts for Scuba divers
- Unique gifts for sea turtle lovers
- Best gifts for Ocean lovers
- Cool gifts for Kitesurfers
- Unique gifts for Kayakers
- Thoughtful gifts for Surfers
- Cool gifts for swimmers
- Best gifts for Outdoorsy kids
- Fun experience gifts for kids
- Cool gifts for a camper van owner
- Personalized gifts for camper owners
- Unique gifts for RV Owners
- Best gifts for Beach lovers
- Practical gifts for Outdoor Women
Was this post on the best gift ideas for a history buff helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others