Presented here is an excavated “Volunteer Militia of Maine” oval waist belt plate that was issued to the State’s volunteer infantrymen early in the Civil War. Maine formally organized its Volunteer Militia (VMM) in 1851 and then restructured it again in 1861 when the war broke out in order to raise and equip ten regiments of volunteer infantry for two years of Federal service.   These small oval brass plates were introduced sometime after the adoption of the Maine State button in 1855 and prior to April 1861.

In very good “dug” condition, this oval brass belt plate is complete and measures 72mm long x 42mm high. Plate is constructed of die-struck, sheet brass with a single brass arrowhead hook and clasp soldered on the back. There is no lead fill in the back. Face exhibits minor small dents and dings. Very nice brown patina overall. The digger’s name is marked on back as well as the recovery location: “Falmouth”.  [jet]

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