Circa 1830s Eagle Waist Belt Plate -Two Piece With Original Buff Belt.

Circa 1830s Eagle Waist Belt Plate -Two Piece With Original Buff Belt.  Die stuck tongue with rolled bar made of brass. The cast belt loop(s).  This pattern was used by regimental officers, and one worn by a Navy midshipman in 1832. (See American Military Belt Plates, by O’Donnell & Campbell, page 88, plates 126-127).

I purchased this belt and plate last year, and had the narrow buff leather in a weak area, about to turn into 2 two piece belt. The conservator repaired the leather, nicely, and also recreated nearly the entire wreath. The belt originally had the broken belt loop and just a hint of the wreath, the remainder being fabricated very much like the original that was long lost.  The tongue was cleaned to match the new wreath, and now has a toned surface with just minimal traces of gilt.  If the belt tongue had been found by its self, without belt,  I would have left it alone, but due to the rarity of the plate on leather, it was restored to be a credible and complete example for a dress belt for both Army and Navy from this 1830s period.  The original belt and buckle would be valued in the $3000. plus value.

The leather shows its age, the white buff having turned a mellow tan color. The adjustment buckle is original as are the two slides. There is no evidence of any sword hanger straps.