12 Gifts for History Buffs

History informs our understanding of the world, both past and present. Some of the most dedicated travelers may happen to identify as history buffs. Since 1973, Moon Travel Guides has led, informed, and inspired travelers, so scroll on for a list of recommendations on books and more.

1. A Good Book

There’s nothing better to quench your thirst for knowledge.

More ideas:

Nonfiction:  Vanguard, Across that Bridge, or What Would Frida Do?

Historical Fiction: Pachinko, The Women in Red, or The Three Lives of Alix St. Pierre

2. A Mug

Henry VIII heat-changing mug


History comes to life with this remarkable Disappearing Wives of Henry VIII Mug, featuring images of King Henry and all six of his wives that change when you pour in any hot beverage.

3. Cozy Socks


These Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. socks make an excellent gift and will keep anyone cozy through the winter. As the civil rights leader himself said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward!”

4. A Board Game

photo of chronology card game with cards


In Chronology, players place historical events in chronological order. What came first, the invention of mayonnaise or decaffeinated coffee? Compete with your friends to find out who the real history buff is.

5. A Puzzle


Welcome to our favorite museum, the herstory museum. As this lovely illustrated puzzle proclaims, “Well-behaved women seldom make history.” Can you spot the famous women figures throughout history?

6. A Rosetta Stone USB


Now you can fit the entirety of the Rosetta Stone in your pocket. This USB flash drive would make the perfect gift for any data-driven history buff.

7. A Matsumoto Hoji Print


Matsumoto Hoji was a Japanese artist active during the late 1700s. Buy a print of his infamous woodblock frog from Sugar & Canvas. The original hangs today at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

8. A LEGO® Architecture Kit


Comprised of a whopping 2022 pieces, LEGO® Taj Mahal doesn’t quite match up to the architectural marvel of the original—but it sure comes close.

9. A Feather Quill Dip Pen


This feather quill set is all old-world charm and handmade in Italy. Choose from three colors of ink and six different nib styles for the ultimate letter writing companion.

10. Hamilton: The Revolution

11. A Historical Newspaper


At Historic Newspapers, you can buy just that: original newspapers spanning from 1900 to only yesterday. Choose from over 200,000 titles and browse world history in real time.

12. A Framed Map

a photo of a framed san francisco map


This framed San Francisco map is made from High Density EVA foam, precision cut using the latest laser technology. Choose from a variety of maps including London, New York City, and many more.


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