Figure 196 



if a market is created. Thus, all plates of this general 

 type should i)e cautiously considered. 



WAIST-BELT PLATE, DIE SAMPLE, C. 1840 



USNM 60354-M QS-K IW). Figure 198. 



One of the more unusual forms of the militant eas;lc 

 used on ornaments is shown on this brass die sample 

 for a waist-belt plate. The eagle, with fierce mien 

 and wings outspread, stands high on a craggy ledge. 

 An example of an untold number of odd and unusual 

 pieces of insignia, this specimen is unidentified as to 

 unit or area of intended use. It may well have been 

 designed for use as a stock pattern. 



Figure ig8 



WAIST-BELT PLATE, RIFLEMEN, C. 1840 



USNM 604103-M (S-K 259). Figure 199. 



A stock pattern, this plate is struck in brass with the 

 open-horn device of riflemen, which has been pre- 

 viously discussed. Wire fasteners are on the reverse. 

 Although the outer ring of the plate is missing, it 

 was probably decorated with a wreath, a common 

 form in the 183n's and 184n's. 



Figure 197 



Figure 199 

 WAIST-BELT PLATE, CHARLESTOWN ARTILLERY, C. 1840 



USNM 604385-M {_S-K 552). Figure 200 . 



This 2-piece, brass-cast plate was worn by members 

 of a Charlestown. Massachusetts, unit. The date 



97 



