Cedar Mountain mystery (partial) relic??

[Scaper]

I posted this on the Treasure Spot site earlier with no conclusive results. So, I'm not expecting a clear answer... in any case: Any ideas what this might be? I dug it near, VA in a field with shell frags, etc. I'd like to think it's period, but doubt it. It's thick, heavy brass but lacking the patina I might expect. It's clearly a remnant of something as it's broken at each end. The reverse side is beveled. I'd like believe the " RIC" would be "RICHMOND" (or AMERICA) if whole. Any thoughts Thanks!

 

Amazon Forum Fav 👍

A History of Mining on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska - Grab it through Amazon!

[Gunrunner61]

Not a clue! But cool

 

[BosnMate]

It looks to me like it might be part of a name plate off of a crypt in a mausoleum. The reason I say this is because I recently
had to purchase one, and they really stuck it to me as far as cost goes.

 

[cudamark]

Part of a custom license plate frame?