This hard to find, early regulation U.S. Ordnance-issue waist belt plate, circa 1847 to 1855, is the 1839 pattern belt plate specifically designed for enlisted mounted dragoons or riflemen. The belt plate device, in fine, non-dug condition, measures 56 x 88mm and is constructed with a die-struck, rolled brass face that features large raised letters "US". Though often referred to as an 'oval' belt plate, the dragoon specimen plates are more elliptical than the regular infantry oval plates.

Backside of the this plate, complete with its intact brass stud-type or puppy paw hooks with single clasp, is lead filled and in very strong, smooth, non-erosive condition. No maker's stamp. Different from the infantry oval plates, the hooks of the dragoon plates have been arranged so that the 'paws' and 'clasp' are reversed with the fixed studs or paws found behind the letter "S" and the hook behind the letter "U". This was done to accommodate a dragoon's saber belt.

Plate also exhibits a pronounced convex shape and features the raised letters "US" that are short and have thick serifs. Plate wears a bronze patina overall with just hints dark oxidation scattered about the face. Face appears to have been cleaned at one time and exhibits a brass sheen. Double borders edge the plate. This very nice original condition, brass U.S. waist belt plate employed by the Federal enlisted dragoon or rifleman, is a sought after artifact and one worthy of any Civil War display or belt plate collection.