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?

 

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[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.