CS Bridle Rosette recovered at Fort Fisher, NC in the 1970s (SOLD)

Being offered is an excavated Civil War bridle rosette. It is die-struck silver plated over brass, has a lead filled back, and measures 1 ¾” x 1 ½”. It was dug in the 1970s at a Confederate camp near Fort Fisher, NC.

After being informed about the large Union army heading toward Wilmington, General Lee ordered Major General Robert Hoke's Division to Fort Fisher. Also, Hoke took command of all Confederate forces in the Wilmington area.

The Union attack started on December 24, 1864, with a naval bombardment. The firepower of Fort Fisher was temporarily silenced because some of its gun positions exploded. This allowed the Navy to land Union infantry. The landing force was intercepted by the arrival of Hoke's troops.

The Union attack was effectively thwarted, and on December 27. General Benjamin Butler ordered the withdrawal of his 1,000 soldiers who were still on the beach. This was in defiance of Grant's orders, which were to besiege the fort if the assault failed. Because Butler disobeyed his orders, he was relieved of command by Grant.

For a dug piece, it still has nice face and is in solid condition. This unique rosette was probably used by a Confederate officer. It comes in the glass top display case pictured.