Brass item what is it? Lightweight brass acessory buckle

[CoinandRelicMan]

Found this about 25 years ago probably. But it struck me as interesting and I liked it. Probably should not have cleaned it as I did, but it was broken and I thought it was worth preserving. Lately was looking through old finds and was wanting to know for sure what its function was exactly , sure its obviously decorative, but for what. So far am guessing sword buckle plate but I am no expert so decided to post it up here. I would have to say this item is probably my favorite relic find to date. I still recall the find, it was quite exciting to unearth it and was totally unexpected.

 

[kuger]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Never seen a Military Plate like it,but appears to be a civilian buckle

 

[Mackaydon]

Re: Brass item what is it?

She appears to fly a tri-colored flag and there are fleur de lis in the corners: French??
Any words, letters or markings on the back side?
Don........

 

[CoinandRelicMan]

Re: Brass item what is it?

No marking on back, it seems to be stamped out of sheet brass maybe?

 

[WAres]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Are you sure it's brass looks like die-cast

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Even with no markings on the back, being that this is your favorite find, shouldnt you post a pic of the backside as well to give us all the help that you can? Maybe we will see a weld, injection mold mark or something that may help date it. Often something will show up in a picture not readily seen in person. Also something for size. http://forum.treasurenet.com/index.php/topic,259110.0.html

 

[CoinandRelicMan]

Re: Brass item what is it?

OK , here is picture of the reverse with quarter for size scaling. Hope this is helpful.

TIA
CARM

 

[Mackaydon]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Knowing what type of vessel this is might help with the ID.
IMO, it appears as a Topsail Schooner; also referred to as a Baltimore Clipper.
Don....

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

Re: Brass item what is it?

OK , here is picture of the reverse with quarter for size scaling. Hope this is helpful.

TIA
CARM

Thanks I think your assessment was correct it looks machine stamped by the picture you posted and all one piece. I can now see better where the part broke off. Is it as thin as it looks? Even the belt loop looks hollow and thin..

 

[CoinandRelicMan]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Yes it is quite lightweight, that is why I encased it. To prevent bending and mashing. Since it is so light, would this mean it was like a ladies item maybe?

 

[cobrasvo90]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Could it be some sort of luggage strap piece?

 

[TheCannonballGuy]

Re: Brass item what is it?

That very thin stamped-sheetbrass buckle is so "lightly constructed" it is only suitable for use on a cloth belt or sash.

 

[kuger]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Yes it is quite lightweight, that is why I encased it. To prevent bending and mashing. Since it is so light, would this mean it was like a ladies item maybe?

I would not discredit its use as a mens belt on the fact it is stamped brass.Stamped brass buckles were very common in the mid 19 th Century.I have also seen period light leather belts featuring stamped brass buckles

 

[CoinandRelicMan]

Re: Brass item what is it?

Well I guess then it is agreed the item is a buckle of some sort. Evidently we won't get a picture of one attached to a belt here, but thanks for the time and effort spent guys 8). Then I would like to question its age. Would you say 1870-1890s or maybe later then ?

 

[CASPER-2]

Re: Brass item what is it?

my guess would be - it is for looks not for use - that being said I think it would be
from a light belt to adorn an early swim suit - could be for woman
but most likely for a man because of the boat
could just be an accessory for an outfit- I would date 1890's to 1920's

 

[CoinandRelicMan]

Thanks for everyones inputs !

 

[fyrffytr1]

My brother found the same buckle about 25 years ago near Williamsport, Md. Where yours has the belt loop his is missing but, his has the part that yours is missing. The hook is about the size of a dime folded in half and is made of heavier material than the buckle.
I don't have a picture of it but, if and when I visit him again I will get one.