NICELY MARKED SMITH PATENT CAPTAIN OF STAFF SHOULDER STRAPS

$975.00

Quantity Available: 1

Item Code: 490-7268

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A very good condition and good looking set of Smith Patent shoulder straps for a Captain on staff duty. There were at least a couple of patents during the Civil War for some form of metallic border in place of the conventional embroidered bullion border on shoulder straps. James S. Smith used a gilt brass metallic frame stamped to present a convex surface and to imitate the grouped dead and bright bullion strands with jaceron wire edges of the conventional strap borders. These were secured on a stiff backing with short, bent wires, with the frame holding the fabric center in place that would show the appropriately colored wool or velvet, with false-embroidered rank insignia that would also be pinned in place. Smith marketed them as less expensive, stronger than embroidered bullion, and both easier to keep clean and to polish bright if they became dulled.

This set has lots of original gilt on the brass and deep black color to the centers with just one small pinhole and one moth nip near the inner edge of one strap. The borders and rank bars are firmly in place. The backs and edges show only minor rubs and wear. The backs bear Smith’s stenciled red patent and maker label: “JAS. S. SMITH / PAT. JUNE 18, 1862 / 15 DUTCH ST. N.Y.” This is slightly rubbed, but fully legible.

The black staff color could indicate service in a supporting service like the Quartermaster Department or frontline duty as member of a regimental, brigade, division, corps or even army level staff, serving in various capacities such as an aide, adjutant, adjutant general, or other post that might carry the officer under fire. It is also frequently used by members of the medical staff.

This is a good looking set with clear maker’s stencil.  [sr][ph:L]

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