BACKGROUND: First introduced in 1847, the design of the buckle remained virtually unchanged until 1918. After January of 1915, these buckles, which were also used by the Prussian-dominated states of Baden, Oldenburg, Hansa and Thuringia, were made of zinc-plated sheet iron.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: A two-piece construction Prussian buckle with its brown leather tab. The 2 3/8" x 1 7/8", slightly convex, plain brass box-buckle has a 1 5/8" diameter nickel-silver face plate set into its obverse. The plate features a crown to its domed center, encompassed by a dual rope-like border within which, against a ribbed background, is "Gott Mit Uns" (God [is] With Us), and a spray of laurels. To the reverse are the two solder spots which secure the face plate to the buckle, the raised buckle catch, and a brass prong bar with dual prongs, for the belt’s retaining tongue. A typical age patina may be seen to both the obverse and reverse of the brass buckle, however, the nickel-silver is still relatively bright. Buckle comes complete with its original app 37" leather belt and retaining tongue. Leather shows heavy age and chaffing but complete, although somewhat stiff. There are 5 unknown holes punched in the belt at various locations for an unknown use, possibly a hate belt. "95," the size marking (being its length in centimeters), is impressed to the exterior of the belt, to the end above the retaining tongue. Belt is maker marked (now hard to read) and is dated for 1915.

GRADE ***                             PRICE $176.00