This is a small curated shadow box containing multiple dug Civil War–era relic fragments, likely assembled for display rather than preserved as an archaeological grouping. The items appear authentic mid-19th century field finds based on oxidation, patina, and wear consistent with long-term ground burial.

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Item-by-Item Identification

1. Fired Lead Minie Ball (Center)

* Civil War bullet

* Appears dropped or lightly fired (no heavy mushrooming)

* Common Union/Confederate infantry ammunition

2. Flattened/Misshapen Lead Projectile

* Likely impact-damaged Minie ball or pistol round

* Deformed from striking a hard surface

3. Brass or Copper Button (Bottom Center, green patina)

* Flat button with shank remnant

* Likely uniform or undergarment button

* No visible backmark reduces collectible premium

4. Small Brass/Bronze Grommet or Rivet (Top Right)

* Likely from leather gear (belt, haversack, or harness)

* Common camp/equipment hardware

5. Brass Thumb Piece / Trigger Guard Fragment (Right Side with Ring)

* Most interesting piece in the lot

* Appears to be part of a percussion cap box latch fitting

* Ring attachment suggests suspension or fastening hardware

6. Lead Fragment (Top Left Small Piece)

* Possibly camp lead scrap or melted projectile fragment

7. Large Curved Metal Fragment (Left Side)

* Likely canteen, cartridge box tin liner, or camp utensil fragment

* Heavy corrosion suggests iron or thin brass sheet

All items show oxidation, soil staining, and surface corrosion consistent with long-term burial and period metallurgy.

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Authenticity Assessment

The artifacts display correct material composition, corrosion profiles, tool marks, and wear consistent with genuine mid-19th century Civil War relics. The mixed-condition excavation wear supports authenticity rather than reproduction. No modern casting seams, artificial aging, or anachronistic alloys are evident.

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Condition Summary

• Excavated condition throughout

• Stable but heavily patinated surfaces

• Structural integrity intact for all components

• No active corrosion observed

• Presentation case shows minor modern wear

Condition is typical and expected for battlefield-recovered material.

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Historical Context

Such assemblages reflect everyday soldier life and battlefield realities, combining ordnance, personal equipment, and camp-related artifacts. Grouped relic displays like this were commonly produced by collectors and small museums from the 1960s–1990s, often using verified relic-hunting recoveries prior to stricter modern regulations.