Gettysburg Excavated U.S. Eagle Breast Plate 

Description

Gettysburg Excavated U.S. Eagle Breast Plate 

Fine excavated Federal breast plate recovered from the Gettysburg battlefield, showing the spread-winged U.S. eagle clutching arrows and olive branch in relief on its convex brass face. The surface retains strong definition despite even field patina and soil toning from burial. The lead-filled back remains mainly intact, with a section of loss and a cut in the face from unknown cause (does not appear to be a shovel or plow strike as the patina is even and the section not bent or straightened. The lead and face showing the typical oxidation and mineral staining consistent with prolonged ground exposure; iron loops have rusted away in excavation, but their bases are clearly visible with one having some bulk left protruding from the lead. Standard issue for Union infantry accoutrements (ca. 1861–1865), these plates were mounted on the soldier’s crossbelt above the cartridge box. A nice example from the Battlefield of Gettysburg! 

Comes housed in a riker display case with velvet and descriptive card.

Inventory Number: GET 536