Adopted in 1839 along with the oval U.S. waistbelt plate, the cartridge box plate was ornamental, but also served to keep the flap down if left unlatched. These smaller box plates are usually dated 1861 or earlier for use on rifle cartridge boxes, etc., and are sometimes considered “non-regulation,” but are known from field recoveries like this both from the use of earlier pattern gear and from various state purchases early in the war. (See O’Donnell and Campbell’s comments on plates 523 and 528 in Am. Mil. Belt Plates.)

This one was recovered in Virginia and has a uniform deep brownish-green patina with scattered gray in recessed areas. The solder fill is present and in good condition on the reverse. The small iron loops are long gone, as is usual. This is a nice variation of the regulation cartridge box plate.  [SR][PH:L]

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