European Back Plate of Siege Weight, First Half 17th C

Description

Heavy russet iron construction with turned edges at neck, arms, and waist; domed brass-
headed lining rivets and a pair of partial staples for securing the shoulder straps (absent).
Stamped “LXXII” (probably inventory number in Roman Numerals). Bullet test making only
a shallow dent, indicating the heaviness of the armor. Scattered pitting and dark age
patina. Weighs 18.6 pounds (8.4 kg), height 16 3/4 (42.5 cm), width 15″ (38 cm). These
heavy armors were often worn by sappers, who would work close to an enemy’s
fortifications and came under fire from every sort of weapon and projectile. Sold separately,
or with the matching breastplate listed separately (A2063). $100 discount of you purchase
the pair.