Found today only 2 inches down. Hoping this is original and not a replica. Apparently if real they are very rare. Writing says Sic Semper Tyrannis with Virginia underneath. Extremely thin brass.
Great find!! looks good to me. You're in Richmond area - take it by Ran Hundley at Sgt. Rikers Relics. Just call to make sure he'll be there. You'll enjoy the shop if you haven't been there.
Some great civil War plates have been found around period house sites. The veteran came home from the war, kid played with the buckle and lost it, or it got thrown out. terrific find!
I truly appreciate all of you who voted Banner on this and for the great comments. This is a great site snd I love seeing everybodys find daily. Keep swinging.
I was wondering what your opinions were on getting this amazing plate straightened? I really like relics as was found and really am not into restored pieces but I have never found something this rare and didn't know if I should consider straightening only not full restoration. I am definitely leaning towards leaving it as is but I really respect the opinions on this site.
Can anybody give me the pros and cons of restoring this specifically just straightening it. I usually prefer to leave as is but it would display better in my case if straight....