Revolutionary war era belt plate??

[ME Ranger]

Hey everyone, im new to this forum, ive enjoyed looking through this site and seeing everyone's finds. I recently found this item in a field on my property...about a foot into the ground. Im quite sure it belongs to a Massachusetts artillery unit sometime around the revolutionary war, but so far ive been unable to date it! Any help in ID'ing this would be greatly appreciated!

 

[hogge]

The Ancient and Honorable Artillery Co. of Ma. was established in 1638. It was the oldest chartered military org. in North America, and the 3rd oldest chartered military org. in the world. It actually had 8 cannon when established. From 1775-1777, there were 17-18 militia units in Ma. In 1776, The Artillery Co. actually had it's HQ in top level, (attic), Faneuil Hall. Given your relics' somewhat "crudeness" of engravings and make-up, I do believe this plate may have belonged to one of these units. More research would have to be done to see if these units contained Artillery Co.s., or smaller internal Artillery support units. (I'm sure some did). I'm sticking my neck out, but I believe it has ties to one of these Rev. War units. Doesn't really matter when the house dates, as units could have passed through the property, LONG before the home was actually built. We'll see what Don T. says, as this piece is quite different, and possibly unique, but it's markings have Militia Unit similarities. Unbelievable FIND! I'll do some more research on these units and see what I can find out, as there are many. This find is going to cause great discussion and "debate" on this site! AWESOME.....because you know how I love a good "DEBATE" WORK CALLS! HOGGE P.S. I'm NOT discounting the fact it could be "post" Rev. War as the design of seal and arm holding sword could very well indicate that. Too bad the attachments aren't there.

 

[hogge]

"Relative" design of this type of State Seal was adopted in 1780. So it should date to after that.

 

[hogge]

I would like to also point out that the cannon muzzles on both sides are pointing down. On all other designs for Artillery that I have been able to locate,(plates, hat plates, buttons and insignia), the muzzles are either horizontal, (with eagle), or pointed up. Most designs I can find are dated 1800-1820 and up. Also, whether or not this has any significance at all in dating this piece, the arm starts at the shoulder above the right part of the shield. Not centered above the crest as all button designs and accroutments I have seen with a seal of this type. The lettering in Artillery mirrors the style of my British Royal Artillery belt tip.

 

[HutSiteDigger]

I have been looking through numerous Plates and Buckles of the American Military from 18th and 19th C. and can not come across this shoulder plate. When my friend comes back from Gettysburg who is one of the most well known artifact dealers in Virginia with credits in several books just like CannonBallGuy I am going too show him this and see if we can get this IDed. Also I will see if CAnnonBallGuy can way in.

 

[hogge]

I'm wondering why the "poster" hasn't been in touch with Don Troiani. Or, maybe he has and hasn't got an answer yet.