✅ SOLVED snake and eagle buckle

[The duck]

sorry australian here this is not my find but im trying to id the buckle on the left

 

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[CRUSADER]

I have no clue, but at first it made me think of Mexico with the Eagle & Snake, however, its normally in its beak. The 7 stars on the banner base must be a clue as well. Someone should get this one pretty soon...

 

[kuger]

I think,it dates to the Mexican American War.A friend dug the near exact hat pin.He also dug a breast plate that features that same motif,that strongly resembles at least two bel buckles of the same period.Yours is of Mexican origin and is likely authentic silver.The story in my mind is likely a veteran of that war,went to Your Gold Rush,carrying his souvenier of his days in Battle

Crusader brings up a great point in that normally the snake is in the Eagles Beak,but I have never seen a snake type buckle like this if it is(sure looks like the British Snake buckles)to allow it to function in that capacity it almost couldnt be in his beak?

I am torn now,it may be American,pretty sure it dates to the 1830-40's

 

[CC Hunter]

The buckle is the center piece of an early 19th Century "S" hook belt fastening device, following the style of the snake type buckles popular in Britain. As my memory serves, I believe this same design is shown in American Military Belt Plates, by O'Donnell & Campbell, and listed as worn on a dirk belt. The eagle design is an American style motif, with the shield featuring bars on the eagle's breast. The metallic construction would surely be brass or similar alloy.

CC Hunter
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[CC Hunter]

Here is an identical piece, attributed to being from a Naval Officer's dirk belt, ca. 1820's-1830's.

Western & Eastern Treasures Magazine - Ask Mark Parker

CC Hunter

 

[The duck]

Thanks to you all for looking up this item and spending the time to research much appreciated

 

[CC Hunter]

You are quite welcome!

Australian finds posted here are interesting to see, even more so when they have U.S. history as well.

CC Hunter

 

[kuger]

CC Hunters knowledge and memory once again leaves me in awe.We spoke last night and he assured me he had seen it in Odonnels even though I had looked and didn't see it.......well this morning over my cup o coffee found it just like he said on page 582 says possible European Manuf. as well