Model 1851 Officer’s Sword Belt Plate (Modified Tongue) / SOLD

Description

Model 1851 Officer’s Sword Belt Plate (Modified Tongue) 

A fine example of the regulation rectangular U.S. officer’s sword belt plate introduced in 1851. A cast brass plate featuring an eagle with spread wings clutching arrows and olive branch, “E Pluribus Unum” in a scroll overhead, and a surrounding laurel wreath. Reverse retains the original tongue, originally the wide style adopted circa 1863–1864, but period modified to accommodate an earlier, narrower keeper. This modification provides a fascinating glimpse into the adaptive nature of soldiers during the Civil War period.  

Inventory Number: BEL 595