A scarce set of regulation Civil War shoulder straps for a lieutenant colonel of staff. These have the regulation black background for an officer of staff and the silver bullion oak leaves of a lieutenant colonel. The central fabric is very good, with no mothing and deep color. The jacqueron wire edging is in place inside and out, with just one small pull along a short edge. The borders have oxidized slightly to a dull silver, but do not show any gaps.

The straps are made with an open back, which is expected in Civil War shoulder straps since they were often supplied uncut on one piece of fabric for the tailor or officer to affix himself (perhaps with the help of a more adept wife or sweetheart.) As is common, the edges have been turned over and kept in place by stitching running across the open back indicating these were actually worn. There is some moth damage to the backs of the straps, but this shows just slightly along the edge in a few places when viewed from the face. The oak leaves and veins show lots of original silver.

Staff officers encompassed a number of officers, including regimental adjutants, medical staff, lieutenants and captains acting as aides to brigadier generals on the battlefield, etc. The relatively high rank of lieutenant colonel suggests this officer was in a supporting service or on duty with a higher ranking officer. It is a fairly scarce set of insignia in any case.  [sr]

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