Crucible Damascus vs. Pattern Welded: which is superior?

[FenrisWolf]

Just curious, with the discussions of different types of Damascus steel one encounters, which was preferred by the ones to whom it really mattered, the fighters? Which is preferred by collectors? And is there an easy way to tell them apart? Is there a difference that is readily apparent to the naked eye, or is it something that only a mellaurgical examination could determine?