25803

Superb 14K Gold Civil War Belt Buckle Superb 14K Gold Civil War Belt Buckle.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,500.00 USD
Superb 14K Gold Civil War Belt Buckle Superb 14K Gold Civil War Belt Buckle.
<B>Superb 14K Gold Civil War Belt Buckle.</B></I> One of two companion pieces. Clearly by the same maker, but with distinct design differences (possibly these were custom-ordered, with each one unique). The eagle is at the top on this one, with the "Union" streamer in his mouth. Patriotic shield and flags at the bottom. To either side are figures of Liberty and Justice, but they are rendered somewhat differently, as in the decorative scrollwork. Also note the center bar (as made), which makes the buckle close differently from the other example with its sharp prongs. This present lot was converted, probably at the time, from a buckle to a pin, with what is obviously a handcrafted T-bar pin assembly. Probably, because it received less rubbing as a pin, the devices show less wear and are sharper than on the previous example, and once again a rich, old patina. Weighs only 8.8 grams, less than half of the companion lot. Partially this is because the pin assembly is much lighter than the buckle parts in the next piece. But it is mainly because this piece is of a significantly thinner gauge than the other. This would seem to strongly suggest that each of these were custom crafted, and the thickness could vary depending on the customer's desires and pocketbook. 1.6" x 2.6".