Rural History Artifact Appraisal

Moses Live Oak Plantation Identification Collar

This item appears to be a metal identification collar or tag, likely made of brass or a similar alloy, given its aged, tarnished, and somewhat dull gold/bronze color. The main plaque-like section is curved, suggesting it was designed to fit around a neck or limb. It features deeply engraved or stamped text in capitalized letters: "MOSES" prominently on the top line, followed by "LIVE OAK PLANTATION" on the second line, and "NEW ORLEANS" on the third. The letters show a degree of wear in their definition but are still clearly legible. The surface of the metal exhibits significant patination, consistent with age and exposure, with minor scuffs and overall dullness indicating use and lack of recent polishing. There are no visible major cracks or breaks, but some minor surface pitting might be present due to corrosion. On the left side of the main plaque, there are at least three visible links of a chain, composed of elongated, rounded rectangular segments, which suggest it was part of a larger chain or collar assembly. The attachment point to the main plaque appears to involve a small pin or rivet. The overall construction points to a utilitarian object rather than a decorative one, designed for durability. The style of engraving and the reference to a plantation in New Orleans strongly suggest an 18th or 19th-century origin, likely pre-Emancipation Proclamation, given the context of 'plantation' and the implied use for identification. The craftsmanship is robust, functional, and consistent with period metalwork for such items.