Nashvillehunter
New member
I dug this buckle in Nashville. It is brass and measures 3.0 inches by 1 7/8 inches. On the back (middle photo) it has two broken attachment stubs on one end and an intact hook on the other end. Something was apparently attached in the central area, as evidenced by the two holes there. "PAT PENDING" is stamped on the back (bottom of right photo). Any idea of what the age might be? I originally thought the Pat Pending indicated post-Civil War ,but now I'm not so sure. For example I've now learned that some fruit jars are embossed "Patent Pending" as early as 1858. I have been unable to find out when "Pat Pending" was first used. Can anyone help me out here? Thanks.