These plates were standard to cartridge boxes till 1864.  Due to the increase in cost to produce military items, manufacturing companies found ways to cut costs.  The cartridge plate was replaced with a stamped or embossed ‘U.S’ on the front overlap in 1864. The item here is an 1839 pattern plate.  Strictly ornamental in function at first, the plate actually helped weigh down the over flap which provided better protection for the cartridges housed inside.

The plate measures 3 ¼” x 2”, is weathered, some misshape to the top, and both wire loop attachments are intact.  [mk]

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