Scarce Pattern Officer's Hat with Regimental Insignia and Soldier Alteration. This classic "plug hat" form of the Civil War ...

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Scarce Pattern Officer's Hat with Regimental Insignia and Soldier Alteration. This classic "plug hat" form of the Civil War slouch hat is made of soft blue-black wool felt and has affixed to the front a tin-backed, gold embroidered "hunting horn" infantry insignia in the bend of which is a stippled silver metal regimental number "5" as per regulations. The original hat cords of twisted black and gold thread remain in place, with the "acorn" at one end missing. The interior features a deep leather sweat band cut with an ornate scalloped edge. A narrow leather thong that fastens the insignia to the hat can be seen beneath it. While the exterior is excellent and the sweat band is complete and sound, the silk lining is fragile and only about 50 percent intact. A gold makers' imprint is mostly visible. Stylish but hot, the hat has been cleverly modified by its original owner with the addition of a large brass grommet in the top to promote ventilation. Distinguished by its lower, rounded crown, photographic evidence shows the "plug hat" was favored by many in the service both enlisted and commissioned. Rarely found in even the most advanced collections and particularly nice with the personal touch of the original owner.