What are the laws on owning war trophies?

If you were left something from a relative who fought in ww2 and didn't know the exact nature of how your relative came into possession of this item but had a suspicion it may have been looted, possibly from a museum or private collection. Do you have the right to claim ownership, as you did not steal it or know if it was stolen? Can it be taken from you? Is it possible that you are guilty of a punishable crime just by receiving this item?

Scott2014-01-15T21:01:19Z

Favorite Answer

Yes, it can be taken from you since it is stolen property. There are web sites that document missing art and cultural objects from WWII.

Anonymous2014-01-16T05:08:55Z

OK, sure if theres proof it was stolen. Fact is you have no idea, right?
Worse case scenario is, you have to give it back.