Excavated U.S. Model 1851 NCO Sword Belt Plate Recovered in Virginia

Description

Excavated U.S. Model 1851 NCO Sword Belt Plate Recovered in Virginia

This is a fine example of the regulation Model 1851 sword belt plate, cast in brass and featuring the spread-winged eagle clutching arrows and olive branch with a patriotic wreath. Above the eagle, the banner “E PLURIBUS UNUM” remains clearly visible. The true “regulation” noncommissioned officer’s version depicts the median rays of the sunburst, pointing downward, as well as upward on the face of the plate. The reverse retains its original tongue and bench number 236. This plate shows attractive chocolate patina with areas of green surface verdigris from ground exposure. The plate retains sharp details to the eagle and wreath despite its time in the soil, making it a desirable battlefield recovery.

Inventory Number: BEL 590