Dug Federal Eagle Breast Plate – Chancellorsville / Mineral Spring Road

Description

Dug Federal Eagle Breast Plate – Chancellorsville / Mineral Spring Road

Recovered March 1988

 

A solid dug example of a Federal eagle breast plate, recovered in March 1988 near Mineral Spring Road, close to the Chancellorsville Battlefield. This plate shows deep, untouched patina from decades in the soil and retains a clear, fully recognizable spread-wing eagle.

 

The face displays good relief with mottled chocolate-and-earth tones typical of Chancellorsville finds. The reverse is worn smooth and missing the iron wire loops—common with plates exposed to long-term ground oxidation.

 

Breast plates like this were issued on the shoulder strap of the U.S. cartridge box sling, and many were lost during the heavy fighting and movement of the Chancellorsville Campaign in May 1863.

 

A very displayable, classic dug breast plate from one of the most important battlefields in the Eastern Theater.

 

Comes housed in 6 x 8 riker display case with blue velvet and descriptive card.

 

Inventory Number: REL 139