Rare Louisiana Militia Belt Plate

sold

This rare buckle depicts the state seal of Louisiana, a pelican feeding her young. Sometimes referred to as the 'angry pelican'.

This pattern features a pelican feeding her young viewed from the side and with her wings active, no surroundings, plain background, with an outer border.  This well made plate was made before the war, and was probably mounted on a light belt that was not well suited for hard campaigning.  Plate is stamped on heavy brass sheet, keeper bar and tongue were soldered to the back.  Plate measures 55.8mm X 83.5mm.  Dug pate, all hooks intact. Slightly bent upper right corner only mentioned for accuracy.  Recovered: Williamsburg Va about 1970. ex. Harry Ridgeway collection.

According to Confederate Belt Plates by Steve Mullinax the original die for this plate exists and is dated 1860. He also states the belief that the plates were ordered by one of Louisiana's independent companies as they are seldom seen.  

A choice dug plate fit for the finest collection.

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