Help identifying relic please

[rcaskey2]

I dug this at the homesite of a civil war vet in NC. He built the home after he came back from war where he lost his leg in battle. It is about 1 5/8" wide and 2" tall appears to be brass. Any help identifying it or of its possible value would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[Frankyg]

Looks like an early badge for the Fishburne Military School in Virginia

 

[pippinwhitepaws]

ok..i'll play...what is a Spaniard doing on a military academy hat badge...in Virginia?

 

[Frankyg]

I've got no idea about the Spaniard but I think it is the symbol of the State of Virginia.

 

[creskol]

The thing says Virginia right on it, so I would guess it is Virginia related. I, too, suspect it is Fishburne Military School from Waynesboro Virginia.

 

[Diver_Down]

ok..i'll play...what is a Spaniard doing on a military academy hat badge...in Virginia?

Not a Spaniard, but a Roman. The two figures actually act out the meaning of the state motto. The female image represents the Roman figure, Virtus, which is a figure of peace. The male figure represents Tyranny, who lies at the foot of Virtus. Virtus is shown holding a long spear, and the whole impression is that of a battle that has already been won. It is symbolic of the victory over Great Britain and tyranny. Hence the state motto, "Thus Always to Tyrants".

 

[Frankyg]

Aww, we weren't that bad were we?

 

[JJohnson]

Outstanding find...