Great 1840s-1850s Massachusetts 1st Corps Cadets Belt Buckle

This is a great belt buckle worn by the 45th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, aka "The Cadet Regiment" for nine months during 1862-186The buckle shows a wonderfully-fashioned six-pointed star with a cross at center and reads MONSTRAT VIAM 1741 ("It Points the Way").

Circa 1840s-1850s.

2-5/8" height and 3-9/16" width.

Brass.

Rectangular loop and hook.

This is from a United States Army collection which we will be listing more of over the next few months. ebay VBBDX08 LHIEX6/10 SLEGE8/14 SLDIEX6/16

7 (Very Fine): Buckle shows moderate overall wear and has a beautiful patina.

As with all my artifacts, this piece is guaranteed to be original, as described.