Old West & Native American Auction
Lot 1490:
Description
This is a fascinating piece of military history, a black-painted iron breastplate identified as a “BULLET PROOF ARMOR” originally issued to English Cromwell officers in the late 1700s. These cuirasses were made of iron, and this style is typical of a period where such armor was being phased out but still saw service, particularly with cavalry units (cuirassiers). The placard from the display notes that this particular piece was later sold as military surplus in New York and was reportedly used by a law officer in the western territories, claiming evidence of stopping two bullets. Visually, there is a prominent white-chalked circle on the chest, possibly highlighting an impact point, and a separate, smaller visible dent or impact mark near the lower right curve, which supports the claim of being battlefield or duty tested. It features thick, wide leather shoulder straps for wearing. The condition is good for its age and rugged history, showing expected heavy wear, deep black paint loss, scuffs, and surface oxidation consistent with centuries of storage and use. The leather strap is worn but intact. H 16″, W 16″, D 8″ From the Western display in Donley’s Wild West Town.
Share this lot:
