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Old 21-06-16, 04:51 PM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Charlie 585 View Post
I believe that this one is more modern though not entirely sure.

Is it though a snake or a swan?

Regards to all.

Ry
Strictly speaking, it is a swan. Snakes don't have beaks. It may be that the snake appellation was given to such buckles on account of the meandering, sinuous 'S' shape.
There is a wide variety of 'snake' buckles, not all necessarily military. Even schoolboys had such, although they were termed 'S' buckles.
During my detecting forays I dug an intriguing serpent buckle, sadly bent and with missing head. It is of very narrow construction and the only similar I have ever seen was illustrated in an online volume of old American insignia and buckles, going back to 18th century (unfortunately I was ever after unable to reconnect with the website and have since misplaced the title!) I recall it was a sword-belt buckle though. Sorry I can't provide a scan or pic at present.

GTB
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