Model 1839 US cartridge box plate that has been converted to a "puppy paw" style belt plate. Both posts and tongue were added to the back. The base of the two posts have dented the face near the "S." Face is otherwise in good shape. Slight bend behind the letter "U." 100% of the lead fill is on the back. Plate is attached to a woven cloth belt that has been cut on both ends to receive the plate. Belt is dirty and shows some wear from age. There is a tear approx. 3.0 long running down the center of the belt near the plate. Plate has tape label on back with "U193" written on it. Plate comes with notebook entry that reads "U193-US box plate (oval) converted by Confederates to waist belt plate and on cotton belt. Rare. Bannerman collection. 1965."

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.