Shoulder belt plate, York North Riding Militia, 1815 (c)

Shoulder belt plates evolved from the simple buckle used for fastening sword belts, which from the 1770s were worn over the right shoulder instead of round the waist. This plate has a beaded edge and a rose in the centre, encircled by a garter surmounted by a crown on a rayed star. The garter is inscribed, 'Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense' (Shame on him who thinks evil of it), and around the edge, 'Yorkshire North Riding Regiment'.

From a collection of 12 shoulder belt plates and 13 gorgets associated with British Regular and Auxiliary Regiments, 1780-1820.