Civil War Relics?

[DennisF]

I found these while detecting in my backyard here in Springfield, VA less than 2 miles from the old Ravensworth Plantation off Braddock Road which was a major thoroughfare for both the Union and Confederate troops. My guess is an axle pin for the heavy iron piece and no clue on the brass medallion. Any ideas?

 

Amazon Forum Fav 👍

A Handbook of Civil War Bullets and Cartridges - Grab it through Amazon!

[daroofa]

Medallion looks like a cattle tag.

 

[DennisF]

No pastures here, I did think maybe a tag for a horse used to pull a wagon or artillery piece. Thanks.

 

[BuckleBoy]

Well, regardless of the presence or absence of cows in the present day, that medallion is certainly a cow tag. Google "cow tag" and you'll see an exact match for the style and size.

Best Wishes,


Buckles

 

[DennisF]

Good call. Thanks for the input.

 

[aquachigger]

Well, regardless of the presence or absence of cows in the present day, that medallion is certainly a cow tag. Google "cow tag" and you'll see an exact match for the style and size.

Best Wishes,


Buckles

Classic!

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

Baaaaaaa. An ad from my 1900 book. They have been in use at least 110 years. Good ID.

 

[aquachigger]

Baaaaaaa. An ad from my 1900 book. They have been in use at least 110 years. Good ID.

They were used into the 1970's at least, because when I was a kid I milked cows with these types of tags. The heavy ones were worn around the neck on a chain. Here are a few from my collection. They are fun to collect even though they give you a heart attack whenever you dig one.

 

[Kiros32]

The large iron piece looks like part of an old iron door hinge.

 

[vhs07]

I'm glad to know what they were used for also. I have several, but wouldn't of thought of them being used as an animal tag.
Thanks for posting.

 

[DennisF]

The iron piece is 3/4" thick and weighs four pounds, it looks like a cut nail used for concrete.

 

[Bigcypresshunter]

The iron piece is 3/4" thick and weighs four pounds, it looks like a cut nail used for concrete.

Maybe its some kind of wedge. We may need more pics from different angles.