A SUPERB & RARE “NORTH AMERICAN PERIOD (CANADA) & WATERLOO PERIOD” OFFICER’S SILVER BELT PLATE1796 to 1820 3rd East Kent Regiment of Foot (The Buffs) Shoulder-belt plates were an evolution from the earlier simple buckles which were once used to fasten sword belts. From about 1770 they were worn over the right shoulder and not as previously around the waist. This particular design was in use from about 1796 to 1820 and thus would have been familiar to the officers of the 3rd Foot who served in North America (Canada) . The Buffs were in Canada at the time of the The Battle of Waterloo in 1815. The National Army Museum holds an almost identical specimen of this rare early plate. This lovely example carries the Buffs' Latin motto of: 'Veteri Frondescit Honore', (‘It Flourishes in Ancient Honour') An extremely rare survivor in seriously good condition with zero issues. The obverse of the badge is of convex construction with a corresponding concave reverse and measures 3.5” inches tall by 3” inches wide. The three separate devises of the design, the “Griffin”, the “Garter” & the “3” are all separate items and are individually fixed to the front plate by prongs that were pushed through and turned over to secure. If you are a serious collector of British North American Period & Waterloo artefacts, this is for you. £1550 with quality part-exchanges welcome.