Item No. 1074566

An early nineteenth-century American militia belt assembly featuring the rolled brass “Star of Stars” plate (O'Donnell & Campbell #161). The plate features a spread-wing eagle with a national shield over a variety of arms, including crossed cannon barrels, bayonets, pikes, and six cannonballs. Above the eagle is a large five-pointed star made up of 20 smaller six-pointed stars, celebrating Mississippi’s admission as the 20th U.S. state in 1818. O’Donnell and Campbell identify it as being in use between 1818 and 1830.

The reverse retains its original applied brass attachment tongue and belt loop bar. It remains mounted on its complete original heavy black leather belt with period stitching, fold lines, and adjustment holes.

Non-excavated condition with sharp die detail and nice brass patina. The leather belt is intact and somewhat stiff, but retains some flexibility. It has light surface cracking expected for its age. Plate measures approximately 69 x 70 mm. Overall length of belt as seen in the first picture: 16 inches.