This excavated Federal waist belt plate is of the early regulation 1839 pattern and was made by W. H. Smith of Brooklyn, New York between 1861 and 1865. Smith, a metal worker in New York City, produced leather accoutrements for other firms in the city. Several 'W.H. Smiths' were listed in the City's business directory and definitive ID of the plate maker is not known. Construction for this enlisted infantryman's belt plate device is via the die-struck, rolled brass face method. The oval plate measures 55 mm x 87 mm is in excavated condition with both 'puppy paw' belt hooks and its single belt clasp strong and tight.

Recovered from an unknown location, this convex specimen is not dented but does suffer from five slight surface cracks along the edge border. Plate features the large raised letters "US" on its face which exhibits a moderate rust-colored patina overall along with some traces of dirt in the crevices. Surface is smooth and hard with just very mild oxidation along the double border. Backside of the plate, complete with all three hooks strongly intact, is lead filled and in good condition with minor cracking and some edge erosion at the edge. Maker's name "W. H. SMITH / BROOKLYN" is clearly visible on the lead surface but is thinly stamped and exhibits a slight, ½" long abrasion across the stamping.

This early pattern, maker-marked dug U.S. oval waist belt plate is a much sought after artifact in very nice relic condition that would be worthy of any Civil War display or collection.