Exquisite condition excavated Virginia Sword Belt Plate excavated in Bedford, Virginia. These plates were manufactured by Emerson Gaylord of Chicopee in 1860, under contract by the State of Virginia to produce 1000 belt sets. These belt sets were manufactured to accompany a “1000 Virginia Manufactory Sword order,” which were in storage in Virginia Armories. The sword blades and scabbards were “shortened and slimmed” to pattern light cavalry swords. Most of these Virginia Sword belt sets were issued to members of the 1st Virginia Cavalry. This example is constructed of “cast brass,” then pressed into a metal die for fine detail. Measurements: 51 X 88mm. Serial number stamped 217.