General Officer Strap Appraisal

U.S. Civil War Era Major General Shoulder Strap

A single, rectangular military shoulder strap for a Major General, likely dating from the mid-to-late 19th century, specifically the American Civil War era. The piece features two five-pointed stars embroidered with metallic bullion thread, positioned at either end of a dark blue or black wool felt field. This central field is framed by a heavy border of double-rowed gold bullion wrap. The construction quality is indicative of period hand-embroidery. The stars show distinct radiating stitch patterns characteristic of the era. The item exhibits significant age-related wear and degradation. The metallic gold bullion has oxidized to a dark bronze or brownish patina. There is prominent fraying and loose threading along the borders, particularly at the left edge and corners. The underlying fabric shows some thinning, and certain sections of the bullion wrap have detached or are flattened. This type of rank insignia was typically worn on the uniform coat (frock coat or sack coat) to denote the high-ranking officer status of a Major General. No maker's marks are visible on the front, and the reverse is not shown, though it would typically consist of a stiffener and fabric backing for attachment.