Unknown found on West Tennessee Civil War Site

[roddalmil]

Found this morning and not sure what it is? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! On a none civil war site. Only thing found close by was some old style used horse shoe nails. Found a couple of bullets this morning but not close to where I found this object.

 

[TomPA]

Maybe give everyone a few more leads. What is it made of? Is the 'squashed' opening made that way intentionally, or otherwise? How about a size, big as an boat anchor, or fits in your pocket?

 

[roddalmil]

Great suggestion TomPA ...my bad .... the part with the loop is 2 1/2" to the center of the back. Seems to be deformed so I would say the loop was open to start. The other pieces or 3" and 3 1/4" but seem to be incomplete. Believe its iron. Thanks for the suggestion.

 

[taz42o]

Maybe part of a horse bit.

 

[BagLady]

I would agree. A part of a bit, or even possibly part of an iron stirrup, but I'm betting a bit.
If you could clean off the rounded end, you may find "U.S." initials or a star.