Chicago Police belt buckle....Late 1800s?

[WheatbackDigger]

Dug up a belt buckle today. I believe it is a Chicago Police belt buckle... 1870-1880s. I could be way off the mark. I couldn't find much information, but just a few pictures on the net. I am normally a coin shooter and don't know much about these things. This was found along an abandon railroad in a wooded area on the outskirts of town. Any additional info would be appreciated.

 

[Master Sarge]

Sweet Find!!!!

 

[crazyjarhead]

If it is, that would make it a nice find

 

[fortbball9]

That is a sweet looking plate,No matter what Era.
I like it very much.
Congrats on a great find

fortbball9

 

[kevin11]

thats a cool find

 

[Nick A]

Very nice find, I think your attribution is correct. Chicago Police and 1870-1900 era. Perhaps narrowing down info on when the maker was in business could set a more exact date. I'm thinking quite rare and valuable (banner worthy?), hopefully someone will chime in with some specific info.

 

[tymcmurray]

That is a Great relic!!!
Congratulations!

 

[BuckleBoy]

Nice Find!! Could be a VERY nice find.

 

[michigan michael]

sweeeeeet!

 

[RiverRat3]

Many large police departments have a historian. Contact the Chicago Police, they would probably be very interested in your find for their history. They would probably be able to give you the dates of the buckle.

 

[civilman1]

I'll Take It.....Nice change from the " Eagle " Plate WheatBack!!!

 

[titan]

That is is an awesome find very cool! i would be interested in the story of that and what the value may be

 

[Bob S]

Nice Find WTG

 

[STH69]

Awesome find!

 

[Gator-Flea]

Nice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

[jgas]

That is a cool find. Even if it is a "Newer" plate. That baby will bring some nice $$$$$. And by "Newer" I mean not CW date or earlier. I am sure the Chicago PD would love to see that. The FOP around there most likely has a historian there as well. Goodluck on the research. In my opinion that is Banner Worthy! jgas

 

[NJ Marty]

Great buckle, I hope you get more info on it. If you do please keep us informed.
I vote banner as well.
Marty

 

[Detectingfreak]

Very nice Chicago Police belt buckle!

 

[whitesPA]

real nice find

 

[PBK]

The maker's mark appears to be that of J. (John) F. Wollensak, an inventor and manufacturer of various metal goods (buckles, locks, hardware, etc.) in Chicago, c. 1870's-90's.