Post CW Shoulder Plate

[craigsig]

Anyone recognize this item? It is a shoulder plate with a nickle finished great seal attached. I am assuming Indian through Spanish American War period. Thanks for your time.

Craig

[PCGeorge]

On your behalf, I phonecalled Mike O'Donnell about your shoulder-belt plate. He is the primary author of the 616-page reference book "American Military Belt Plates."

Mr. O'Donnell said you are correct, this version of Great Seal emblem and the nickel-silver plating on the emblem (rather than sliver-plating) strongly indicates it dates from the Indian Wars era into the World War One era. He said this plate's brass body is a manufacturer's "stock" model of plate, meaning the small attachment-slots in its face were positioned to acceptone of several varieties of emblems, according to the customer's desire. He said this particular version of shoulder-belt plate (having the Great Seal emblem) was used mainly by State Militia units, and some Military Schools.

Regards,
Pete [P.C. George]

[craigsig]

That you very much for the time you took. I figured the same. Biggest curiosity for me was what unit (etc.) would have utilized the great seal as their emblem of choice as opposed to what one would normally see for a state's choice. Regardless, I like the piece, haven't seen one like it (with the emblem) so all is good. Again, thank you very much for your efforts! Craig