Civil War Whatizit

[Gitschlag]

Found on a major Civil War battlefield, this brass or bronze thingy has me stumped! Some kind of latch perhaps? It is numbered "569" in what looks like old numbering to me. Minie ball found near it is used for scale. Any help is appreciated!

 

[nhbenz]

A bent piece from a rim lock I believe
Pretty similar to a few in this lot: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-rim...D&orig_cvip=true&rt=nc&_trksid=p2047675.l2557

 

[NOLA_Ken]

yup, it's the locking bolt from and old rim or mortise lock

 

[Gitschlag]

Outstanding ID, thank you gents!