Figure 140
An illustration in U.S. Military Magazine[114] shows this plate being worn by the National Greys; however, with such a nondistinctive center ornament as the rosette of six petals, it must surely have been a stock pattern sold to many different organizations. The sunburst proper is struck in brass, as is the rosette, and each of the rays is pierced at the end for attachment. The rosette is affixed with a brass bolt, also for attachment, which must have extended through the front of the cap.
CAP PLATE, ARTILLERY, C. 1840-1850
USNM 60333-M (S-K 89). Figure 141.
Figure 141
This plate is struck in very thin brass. The combination of devices in the design, especially of the cannon and cannon balls, indicates that it was probably made for Militia artillery. Its shape suggests that it may have been worn high on the cap front, with the sunburst serving an added function as a cockade of sorts. It was very probably a stock pattern.
CAP PLATE, MOUNTED TROOPS, C. 1836
USNM 60319-M (S-K 75). Figure 142.