This white buff leather saber belt in fine, complete, original condition is a rare variant of the Model 1839 dragoon enlistedman's belt in all white buff leather, was never dyed black per army regulations in 1851 and remains in excellent condition.   Saber rig is complete with its original brass belt plate, two saber straps, dismounted saber hook, the over-the-shoulder strap and all brass fittings. This extraordinary white buff saber belt measures approximately 38” long x 1¾” wide. 

Brass plate is an early Model 1851 rectangular Eagle-Wreath plate with keeper.  Sewn to the belt is its original, rectangular, one-piece, eagle plate with its early, three-section applied silver wreath and narrow tongue. Plate is a cast brass, sand-molded device with the integral spread-winged eagle looking to his right. A 3-piece silver wreath surrounds the eagle. No maker’s mark is visible on the plate nor is there a benchmark. 

A brass keeper is stitched in place on the opposite end of the belt.  No brass rivets were used in this rig.  All brass furniture has acquired a pleasing mellow bronze patina.  The leather, once white, has turned to a pleasing cream or buff colored hue and exhibits scattered areas of light surface grime overall.   A fine, complete, early pattern buff leather saber belt with its eagle plate.