Authentic 71st NY State Militia Shoulder Belt Plate - Spanish-American War Era Relic (c. 1870s-1890s)

This is a genuine military uniform accoutrement from the late 19th century, specifically a shoulder belt plate for an enlisted man of the 71st Regiment of the New York State Militia. The design features a rolled brass plate with clipped corners, measuring approximately 2-5/8ths inches wide by 3-5/8ths inches long. A large numeral "71" made of nickeled brass is applied to the face of the plate using a system designed for easy removal of the numbers for polishing the brass plate beneath. This historic unit was active during the post-Civil War era (Indian Wars) and notably deployed during the Spanish-American War, where they fought alongside Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders at San Juan Hill. The aged patina of the metal is consistent with an authentic vintage artifact from that period.

• Period: Post-Civil War, Indian Wars & Spanish-American War Era (circa 1870s–1890s).
• Material: Rolled brass plate with applied nickel-silver (nickeled brass) numerals.
• Design: Clipped-corner rectangular plate with large applied "71" digits. The reverse side features four soldered brass toggles and a central stud for attachment to a belt.
• Dimensions: ~2.6 inches x 3.6 inches (67 mm x 92 mm).
• Condition: Good, aged condition with typical patina and wear for a period item.
• History: The 71st Regiment was a well-known and historic unit that saw action in major campaigns of the late 19th century.