Civil War Union “US” Belt Plate, dug at Manassas Virginia Battlefield

Being offered is the brass face only from a Union “US” Belt plate, measuring 86mm x 52mm. It was common during the Civil War, especially the early years, to remove the lead backing from belt plates, such as this one. The lead was melted and used to mold bullets, especially with the Confederates when supplies were short. Being this one was recovered many years ago from the early battle of Manassas, this is probably what happened.

Manassas was the site of two major Civil War battles: the First Battle of Manassas (also known as First Bull Run) in July 1861 and the Second Battle of Manassas (also known as Second Bull Run) in August 1862. These battles were significant events in the war, demonstrating the conflict would be long and costly.

As you can see in the pictures, it is very fragile, although still together. If desired, the back could be reinforced. Not a top shelf plate, it is still a good representation of what the Union soldiers were wearing at one of the first Civil War battles. It comes in the glass top display case pictured.