O’Donnell and Campbell illustrate this die-strike as Plate 516 and date it to 1861, noting the rather crude shape of the “S” and the “nonregulation” size, taking it most likely as a state purchase made to equip early war volunteers. This one was excavated in Virginia and has a nice looking face with generally brown tones and no significant scratches or dings to the rim. The lead solder fill on the reverse is good, with no significant losses and both studs and the fastening hook are in place.

This pattern was adopted by the army in 1839 and was the regulation Civil War belt plate for infantry enlisted men, heavy artillery serving as infantry, etc. There are a good number of variations in size and methods of attachment. This is a nice example with early-war associations. [SR][PH:L]

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