✅ SOLVED Heavy little coin?

[Batholith]

Hey folks! New guy here with my first mystery find. Found this in SE Virginia about 7 inches down. I'm hoping an old pro can look at the oxidation pattern here and name the metal. It seems to have a density similar to lead- definitely has lettering visible and appears to be struck off-center and have uneven thickness (old perhaps?). Would love best guesses on what it is and how to go about identifying it. Haven't let myself get too excited about it but there is a lot of history in this area

Thanks!

 

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[TomPA]

Check and see if a magnet sticks to it. If it's lead and has writing on it, it could be a small bale-seal. It looks like it has the thickness of an older Indian Head penny, but more details are needed for a true ID.

 

[Batholith]

Thanks for the reply Tom, and sorry for my delayed response. Definitely non-ferrous. After some looking around I have the impression that lead often develops a whitish layer of oxidation/patina after some time in the ground so I'm guessing that's what it is. I think I'd risk causing damage trying to uncover more of the writing so for now I've decided to let it remain a mystery. Would love to hear any more ideas. Thanks!

 

[Goldiver]

Your find appears to be a lead seal similar to the ones in this auction listing.....

Trio of Civil War Era Lead Railroad Cargo Seals Dug Cold Harbor VA | eBay

 

[Batholith]

Thanks Goldiver- looks like a winner!