This leather baldric is in overall good condition. The leather is solid and pliable but the surface has moderate dirt and several areas of moderate wear. The baldric is complete with the sewn leather keeper and the Model 1826 eagle breast plate for adjusting length. Above the plate are four holes for size. Also in this area are two faint maker’s marks that are unreadable.

The plate has a nice medium patina on the face while the reverse has two arrow hook attachments and tongue as well as 100% of the lead fill.

The baldric is set up with two frogs placed side by side. One accepts the Model 1840 NCO sword and scabbard while the other holds the Model 1839 bayonet scabbard or any other scabbard that has a stud type attachment.

This item is from the collection of the late William G. "Bill" Gavin (1924 - 2010) was one of the nation's most prominent and esteemed Civil War relic collectors. Following graduation from West Point [Class of 1946], Gavin became a pioneer in applying WWII mine-detector technology to relic hunting. Along the way, he became an avid historian whose collection, with its origins dating back to the 1930's, was enhanced by his acute knowledge of battlefield troop movements. His service to his country included six years in the U.S. Army, followed by a seven year period in which he was a member of the U.S. Army (Ready) Reserve.

Mr. Gavin shared his Civil War knowledge via the publication of four books and several magazine articles. In 1963 he authored one of the earliest books on relic buckles (Accoutrement Plates North and South, 1861-65), and in the 1970s established the Rectory Museum in Harper's Ferry, while becoming owner of The Cliffside Inn. He was also the owner of Happy Retreat, the 18th century home of Charles Washington, youngest brother of George Washington, located in Charles Town, WV.  The Horse Soldier joins the national Civil War community in mourning Bill Gavin’s passing, and is proud to be able to offer items from his exceptional collection.

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