Civil War excavated US Cavalry Carbine Sling Buckle, dug at Charles City, VA

This is another nice piece being offered; it is a dug regulation U.S. Cavalry Carbine Sling Buckle. It is cast brass with brazed on middle bar and rotating tangs (both are present and still freely rotate). This plain buckle was used to fasten a shoulder sling, from which the cavalryman could hang his carbine when riding (see period pic). The buckle measures 3 ¼” x 2”. It was recovered years ago at Charles City Courthouse, Virginia.

This is where Grant's army passed on its way to the river in June 1864. One of Virginia's important colonial courthouses which was built in the early 1730's. The courthouse was the scene of considerable fighting during the Civil War because of its strategic location along the James River between Richmond and Williamsburg (see period map).

The buckle is complete and in solid condition but obviously seen some hard service, possibly even struck. It has the original uncleaned patina – just as it came out of the ground. It comes in the glass top display case pictured.