Pre-Civil War Militia Belt Plate, Circa 1830's -1840's.  This rare and unusual buckle is from my collection.  I had kept this one, but discovered that Dad has one on the belt. I have decided that we don't need to keep a second one... though, I have been reticent to sell it as this one is in prettier shape.  It is a rare and seldom encountered American militia buckle. These are the only two that we have seen through the years. The eagle device is applied and the back is lead filled with a very serviceable hook arrangement.