Excavated VMM Box Plate in Superior Condition

Excavated VMM Box Plate in Superior Condition – We recently obtained a significant excavated collection that was assembled over a period of almost 50 years; amongst the impressive artifacts contained in this collection was this superb example of a VMM cartridge box plate, retaining both box attachment loops. The plate does not exhibit any significant ground action; the front of the plate retains a smooth, dark “coppery” color, with no dents or dings. Both box loops are relatively solid, although rusty. This is one of the better VMM plates we have had.

VMM plates were issued to Maine infantry soldiers at the onset of the war; although Maine’s Volunteer Militia was organized by the state in 1851, it underwent a restructuring in 1861, when the Civil War commenced. This restructuring resulted in the formation of ten volunteer infantry regiments, enlisted for two years of army service. Research indicates that the VMM plates, belt and cartridge box, were initially introduced sometime just prior to 1861.