Civil War Relics?

DennisF · Jan 16, 2012

I found these while detecting in my backyard here in Springfield, VA less than 2 miles from the old Ravensworth Plantation off Braddock Road which was a major thoroughfare for both the Union and Confederate troops. My guess is an axle pin for the heavy iron piece and no clue on the brass medallion. Any ideas?

daroofa · Jan 16, 2012

Medallion looks like a cattle tag.

DennisF · Jan 16, 2012

No pastures here, I did think maybe a tag for a horse used to pull a wagon or artillery piece. Thanks.

BuckleBoy · Jan 16, 2012

Well, regardless of the presence or absence of cows in the present day, that medallion is certainly a cow tag. Google "cow tag" and you'll see an exact match for the style and size.

Best Wishes,

Buckles

DennisF · Jan 16, 2012

Good call. Thanks for the input.

aquachigger · Jan 17, 2012

BuckleBoy said:
Well, regardless of the presence or absence of cows in the present day, that medallion is certainly a cow tag. Google "cow tag" and you'll see an exact match for the style and size.

Best Wishes,

Buckles

Classic!

Bigcypresshunter · Jan 17, 2012

Baaaaaaa. An ad from my 1900 book. They have been in use at least 110 years. Good ID.

aquachigger · Jan 17, 2012

bigcypresshunter said:
Baaaaaaa. An ad from my 1900 book. They have been in use at least 110 years. Good ID.

They were used into the 1970's at least, because when I was a kid I milked cows with these types of tags. The heavy ones were worn around the neck on a chain. Here are a few from my collection. They are fun to collect even though they give you a heart attack whenever you dig one.