Original Item: Only One Available. This is a remarkable example of a Regiment of Light Dragoons (United States) helmet plate from the early War of 1812 era. The plate is rectangular in shape with clipped corners that are pierced for attachment. It is an almost exact duplicate of the earlier 1800 dragoon plate except that it is made of "white metal," which was the color used by the dragoons.

Although no detailed description of the 1812 plate has ever been found, it is known that several identical specimens were attached to dragoon helmets during that period. This plate is a significant historical artifact that gives us a glimpse into the past and helps us understand the overall military history and organization of the United States.

We received this helmet plate from the American Armoured Foundation, Inc. Tank and Ordnance Memorial Museum. This museum was established in 1981 as a non-profit charitable organization by Mr. William Gasser, who donated his private collection to the museum. Mr. Gasser's collection was a result of his passion for educating present and future generations about the sacrifices made and the technologies gained during war. He had collected artifacts for many years before deciding to establish the museum. Mr. Gasser is still actively involved as Volunteer Director and Curator of the Tank Museum, and his knowledge of military history has been a great asset to the museum. However, after 20 years of operation, the museum had to close its doors, and we acquired this helmet plate during that time.

This particular plate is in remarkable condition, despite the presence of some expected warping that is often found in thin metal artifacts. The plate's most exceptional feature is that it has managed to retain almost all of its original finish, which is a true rarity. The finish itself is quite stunning, with a beautiful luster and shine that has not diminished over time. Although there are a few small areas where the finish has been lost, resulting in a lightly oxidized surface that still blends seamlessly with the rest of the plate. Overall, this plate is a remarkable piece of craftsmanship that showcases both the skill of its maker and the beauty of its design.

A solid example that comes more than ready for further research and display.

Regiment of Light Dragoons (United States)
Under the designation Regiment of Light Dragoons existed two different units of the U.S. Army in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries, respectively. A first unit of its name was short lived, established just prior the Quasi-War with France, in 1798 and discharged in 1800.

The second unit under this designation was activated in 1808. During the War of 1812, it was temporarily designated as the 1st Regiment of Light Dragoons when the War Department created an additional similar regiment. On May 12, 1814, the additional regiment was consolidated with the 1st Regiment, which reverted to its unnumbered designation. The regiment was consolidated with the Corps of Artillery on May 17, 1815.

The very first unit of the U.S. Army designed as Light Dragoons was a single Squadron of Light Dragoons, assigned to the Legion of the United States, by September 1792.

All these units followed the model of the British Regiments of Light Dragoons that were established in the 1750s.