Note the drop of paint on the bar





  Note the die stamped disc


  Image with star belt is not included

This round belt loop design and concentric ring wreath is a Confederate era, original pattern as opposed to a pre-war pattern. These die stamped buckles were only made during the early War. I have examined photographs of both Texas and Mississippi soldiers wearing this pattern.

The same company who manufactured this belt and buckle with a five pointed star decorating the central disc also made identical belts with the letters W. A. on the tongue disc which stood for New Orleans Washington Artillery and one with the letters CS, for Confederate States on the disc and a third pattern that bore the Louisiana state seal.

What we know: these are a Confederate design that was only produced during the War. It is generally believed that these were made by Thomas, Griswold & Company of New Orleans, Louisiana. However, swords came with belts, and I am aware of a pristine James Conning sword with this pristine belt.

This is a wartime patent leather belt over a heavy web core which gives it strength and flexibility. It is identical to another of this same pattern that I have owned. Because of the heavy web under the patent leather, it is strong enough to wear. It still retains its original wire sword hanger. The hanger is so plain, one would assume that it was a replacement, but in going through my photo files, I find that I have another example of this exact belt and buckle with this same wire hanger. Both sword drops are original but both have repaired breaks, which are shown in the pictures, but can hardly be seen. It is remarkable that they exist at all, and especially so that they still have their original ring mount snap hooks.

This example is well used, showing a lot of wear and several light dings, but it is in very good condition!

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