This is a Pattern 1839 Dragoon waist belt plate from the Civil War era. It measures 3 3/8" wide and 2 1/8" tall. It was constructed by die striking a rolled brass face. The back is lead filled and has brass stud belt hooks. These are referred to as 'Puppy Paw" plates due to the shape of the studs. While I can find no makers mark on the back, I believe this one was made by John F. Iden of New York City. The rounded letters of US on the face are very distinctive. There is an example of this plate in O'Donnel and Campbell's book, "American Military Belt Plates" as plate 493 on page 307. Iden produced these plates for use by Northern troops during the Civil War. This one is non excavated and has a dark, almost black patina to it. There is also some green verdigris showing on the face. All three studs are on the back along with the lead. The entire surface of the lead has a reddish brown rust appearance. It came into the shop with part of a large collection out of Illonois, but had no history with it. This would make a great example of a non dug belt plate that was common among the fighting men of the North.

Item # AA861

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