American Civil War CS Confederate Officer Brass Buckle

American Civil War CS Confederate Officer Brass Buckle

This distinctive buckle consists of two separate, interlocking parts that together form a strong and decorative whole:

• Wreath Part (Female Component): One piece forms a circular decorative wreath (most often interpreted as a laurel or oak leaf wreath, symbolizing honor and strength) with a rectangular opening in the center. A robust rectangular bar (strap loop) is attached to the back of this part for threading and securely attaching one side of the belt.
• "CS" Emblem Part (Male Component/Tongue): The second piece, often referred to as the "tongue" or insert part, bears a raised circular emblem with the prominent letters "CS" (initials for Confederate States of America). This emblem, by its shape and size, fits precisely into the opening in the wreath part. This part also has a similar rectangular bar on its back for attaching the other side of the belt.

Both parts are crafted from high-quality solid brass, ensuring their strength, wear resistance, and authentic period appearance. Over time, brass acquires a natural patina, which further enhances the historical impression. When closed, the buckle forms a visually dominant circular medallion with an overall width of approximately 8.6 cm.

Product Specifications

• Material: 100% solid brass
• Motif: CS (Confederate States) with decorative wreath
• Buckle Type: Two-piece, interlocking clasp buckle
• Recommended Belt Width: approx. 35 mm (internal width of the strap loops is approx. 36.8 mm)
• Diameter of the central "CS" emblem: approx. 28.3 mm
• Outer diameter of the circular wreath part: approx. 46.13 mm
• Outer width of the strap loop (on each part): approx. 43.9 mm
• Overall width of the closed buckle (from the edge of one loop to the other): approx. 85.8 mm
• Weight: approx. 63 g

Use of the Buckle in History and Today

How Can You Use This Buckle?

• American Civil War Reenactment: This is the primary purpose of this buckle. It perfectly complements a Confederate (CSA) officer's uniform and dramatically increases the authenticity of your costume at historical events, battle reenactments, commemorative, and memorial events.
• Collectibles: A high-quality replica for collectors of militaria, uniforms, and items from the American Civil War period (1861-1865).
• Film and Theatre: An authentic accessory for film shoots, television productions, and theatrical performances themed around this significant historical conflict.
• Original Fashion Accessory: For bold individuals with a strong connection to history, this buckle can also serve as a distinctive and unconventional accessory for everyday civilian clothing, for example, on an army-style leather belt.

A Glimpse into History: Who Wore This Buckle and How?

This type of two-piece brass buckle with the letters "CS" was characteristic and widely used for the belts of officers in the Confederate States Army (CSA) during the American Civil War. Officers, unlike enlisted men, often acquired or were issued higher quality and more ornate uniform components and equipment, including belt buckles, which were not only functional but also representative and a symbol of their rank. The belt to which this buckle was attached served primarily to carry a saber (a saber belt) but also to suspend other personal armament such as a pistol (in a holster), ammunition pouches, a canteen, and other essential field equipment. The laurel or oak leaf wreath was a traditional symbol of honor, victory, and military prowess.

Interesting Historical Facts

During the American Civil War, the Confederacy, due to its smaller industrial capacity compared to the Union and an effective naval blockade by the North, faced significant problems with supply and the production of military material. This led to great diversity and often improvisation in the uniforms and equipment of Southern soldiers. While some "CS" motif buckles were mass-produced in foundries in the South (for example, in Richmond, Virginia) or successfully imported from Europe (especially from England and France) through the blockade, many pieces were also the work of local craftsmen and blacksmiths. There were, therefore, several design variations of "CS" buckles, differing in material, size, and execution details. However, the two-piece model with a wreath and an insertable emblem was among the most recognizable, prestigious, and also most sought-after by Confederate officers. Original buckles from this period are now highly prized collector's artifacts and witnesses to a turbulent history.

Guide to Attaching the Buckle to a Belt

Attaching this two-piece interlocking buckle is relatively straightforward and does not require special hole punching in the belt for a traditional prong, as the mechanism works by inserting one part into the other.

1. Preparing the Belt: You will need a leather belt approximately 35-36 mm wide. This width will ensure that the belt fits snugly and securely in the strap loops on the back of both buckle parts.
2. Attaching the First Buckle Piece: Take one end of your prepared belt and thread it through the loop on the back of one buckle piece (for example, the part with the decorative wreath). Fold the belt end back onto the reverse side of the belt by approximately 3-5 cm (1.2-2 inches).
3. Securing the Folded End: Securely sew the folded end of the belt to the main part of the belt. For maximum strength, it is recommended to use a strong, durable thread (such as traditional linen thread or a modern synthetic thread designed for leatherwork). Alternatively, for an even more robust connection, you can rivet the folded end with a few saddler's rivets.
4. Attaching the Second Buckle Piece: Repeat the same procedure (steps 2 and 3) with the other end of the belt and the second buckle piece (the part with the raised "CS" emblem).
5. Determining and Setting the Overall Belt Length: Before finally attaching both belt ends to the buckle pieces, it is absolutely crucial to carefully measure the required overall length of the belt. Measure the belt around your waist (ideally over the uniform or clothing with which you will most often wear it) so that after attaching both buckle parts and closing them, the belt fits correctly and comfortably. This type of buckle does not allow for easy subsequent length adjustment using holes and a prong, as is the case with classic buckles. All length adjustments are made solely by carefully setting the position of the stitching or riveting of the belt ends to the respective buckle pieces.

After correctly attaching both parts to the belt, the buckle is fastened by simply inserting the part with the "CS" emblem into the opening in the part with the wreath, where both parts connect securely and elegantly via the "male-female" mechanism.

A quality branded product from Lord Of Battles®.