“Atlanta Arsenal” style Confederate States of America (CSA) cast plate and leather belt that once belonged William Davis Hayes, grandson of Jefferson and Varina Davis. Hayes states in a signed typewritten note that accompanies this lot that it was given to him around the year 1900 by Varina Davis, and that it was worn by Jefferson Davis throughout the war.

We believe this story is likely apocryphal, but the plate is a genuine example period to the war (the belt is more modern). William Davis Hayes carved his initials into the reverse of the plate and several times on the leather belt, which he states in the letter he did as a child.

Interesting piece associated with the Davis family that very well could have been worn to reunions and different events. The plate’s face has been buffed to a slight sheen. 

The plate and leather belt bear William Davis Hayes’ initials.