September 10-12, 2024 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/11/2024
Only 300 Second Pattern Prairie Belts were issued to accommodate .50-70 Springfield cartridges. These belts were issued with the various .50 caliber carbines that remained in service during the 1880s. This example is both arsenal and Ordnance Department inspector stamped with "WATERVILIET / ARSENAL" and "A.R. SMITH". It is believed that only 200 of these belts were produced at the Watervliet Arsenal. Reverse side is inspector stamped "J.R.". This example is full length and has not been shortened or altered. All 46 of the cartridge loops are present with no major fraying. The 3rd and last loops by the leather billet exhibit splits. Leather billet remains strong and supple with a few visible light cracks. Body exhibits scuffing but also remains strong. These .50 caliber prairie belts are an important example of the efforts of frontier officers to properly equip not only the soldiers under their command, but the civilians who supported the army who supported the military columns. Very few of these belts survived the campaigns they were issued for. CONDITION: Very good.
Item Dimensions: 10" X 10"