This is a high-quality example of the regulation side-eagle used to pin up the brim of the officer’s 1858 pattern dress hat in very good condition, with an internal stiffener and the two loops in place on the reverse. The eagle with upraised wings had been used on other insignia, but with the addition of the arc of clouds and stars overhead, along with the E Pluribus Unum ribbon extending from the eagle’s beak, this became the regulation piece to hold up the brim of the army hat on one side, and was made of bullion embroidery for officers and less expensive stamped brass for enlisted men.

The eagle faces to the viewer’s left, indicating it was intended to be worn holding up the left side of the wearer’s hat, and thus face forward, though perhaps not all officers were attuned to such niceties. The color is very good, slightly muted by oxidation, but not dark or grayed. The stars were silvered and the wings use sequins to suggest texture and feathers. The backing is in place and in very good condition, with no holes, tears, or runs, and the two standing loops for attachment to the hat with short leather thongs or wedges are intact. There is a little wear evident to the edge, which is not uncommon. It likely had a jaceron wire border, but these were usually lightly tacked in place, snagged on things and pulled off easily, leaving little trace.

This is a superior example showing quality workmanship and in great condition.  [sr] [ph:m]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

THIS ITEM, AS WITH ALL OTHER ITEMS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEB SITE,

MAY BE PURCHASED THROUGH OUR LAYAWAY PROGRAM.

CLICK HERE FOR OUR POLICIES AND TERMS.

THANK YOU!