Eagle Plate
SOLD
Item: Eagle Plate
Use: Federal. Eagle plates, also known as breast plates, shoulder belt plates, and cross belt plates, were displayed on the belt that held the soldier's cartridge box. Eagle plates with two belt attachment loops were purely ornamental and proudly worn by Union soldiers with the belt slung over the shoulder and across the chest. See the additional images in this listing for an image showing its use.
Construction: Die stamped thin sheet brass with solder fill and two iron wire loops.
Condition: Fair, excavated. The brass front has a very pleasing green-brown patina with two freeze cracks to either side of the eagle. Much of the plate's rim is missing leaving approximately one third in two separate sections. The body of the plate is bent inward into a concave shape. The rear retains a complete complement of solder supporting what remains of the brass front. The iron belt attachment loops are no longer present. The plate has no repairs.
Recovered: Gettysburg, PA area.
Approximate size: 60 mm. (measurement varies due to irregular shape)
Reference: Images of similar eagle plates are found in the following Civil War relic reference book:
- "Civil War Artifacts" by Howard Crouch, on page 189.
See above page in additional images.
Comments: This excavated eagle plate was acquired directly from the digger and, if you like that war torn appearance, then this one is for you. It will be an excellent addition to any excavated Civil War accoutrement plate or general relic collection.
- Product Code:
- PC10484
MISSED OUT ON THIS ITEM?
I may have other similar examples not yet listed.
To find out:
Call or Text: 804-873-5462
Email: virginiarelics@comcast.net