Hi Mike
Yes ! This is an "Other Ranks" shako plate 1839 - 1855 with the crown detached and the badge modified for another use ... possibly, as you say, a martingale.
The 73rd Foot were in South Africa from August 1846 to May 1858 ... quite a long stay, and, as you say, encompassing the 7th & 8th Frontier Wars and the Basutu campaign.
I don't think this modification is contemporary tho'. But a nice "find" anyway. Regards Jeff
Last edited by Jeff Mc William; 21-04-18 at 07:02 AM.
|