Item No. 5119187

Early to mid-19th century heart-shaped brass martingale badge (breastcollar plate), excavated in 1990 on private property at the historic site of Fort Merrill along the Nueces River in Live Oak County, Texas. Fort Merrill was a short-lived U.S. Army border post established in 1850 to protect western Texas settlements. Stamped sheet brass face solder-filled with lead backing, constructed similarly to military belt plates of the era. Designed to be mounted as a decorative ornament on horse harness breastcollars or martingales. Measures 2 3/4”. Authentic uncleaned condition featuring a dark patina. The reverse retains its complete lead filling with three original iron mounting wire attachment loops embedded near the edges. From a Texas estate.