Civil War artifact with engraving, odd artifact.. need help!

[HutSiteDigger]

It was just a trap.

Well thought it was something Civil war deep in the ground in a camp. come to find out its just a vintage game TRAP

So apparently there selling on E-bay for $10-$15 bucks.. In other words its about the same price as a common eagle button

 

[ohiowhiteguy]

pretty sure its a trap...like a bear trap.just a guess...hh leg hold the v is where you put the bait
owg.

 

[HutSiteDigger]

Yep.. Vintage game trap. How it got into a civil war camp deep in the ground is beyond me

 

[ohiowhiteguy]

trapper john..
owg..

 

[arnofarrell]

Its a Victor leg trap. Judging by the size it is for raccoons and other medium sized furbearers. I use them while trapping, the one you have older. I have caught 2 on my fishing line while fishing.

 

[HutSiteDigger]

Im assuming another relic hunter dug it in the camp and buried it about 8-10 inches in the ground for the next guy to find. Odd place for a trap though and this spot is deep in the woods.