1/4 Plate Tintype of a 2nd U.S. Cavalryman In Full Dress Uniform – SOLD

1/4 Plate Tintype of a 2nd U.S. Cavalryman In Full Dress Uniform.  His 1872 pattern dress helmet sets on a pedestal covered with a buffalo robe. The regulations for his uniform coat called for the regimental numbers to be placed on both sides of the collar, “2” for the 2nd regiment. The image of the 2 is a bit blurry, but can be no other number, as at this time there are only ten numbers to choose from, none have any similarity to the “2.” It’s hard to make out any chevrons on his coat, but he appears to have at least 1/2″ stripes on the pant legs, indicating NCO rank.

The image was reversed when developed, as the eagle’s head on the helmet plate, and his helmet cords show this. Note how many troopers at this time, placed a small snap hook on the end of their helmet cords, so the cords remained on the uniform, allowing to place the helmet aside separately if need be.

The 2nd Cavalry was stationed in the Northern Plains in the 70s era and saw a great deal of fighting with several of the Plains peoples.

The painted backdrop shows a series of high barren bluffs, sparse of vegetation along the river’s edge, and a tent (or teepee) in foreground. The trooper is holding a saber with a bright blade at his front.

A super image.