Uncased 1/8th Plate Tintype of Civil War Soldier with Saber Bayonet

This poignant 1/8th plate tintype is an uncased, intimate portrait of a Civil War soldier posed with his rifle, saber bayonet fixed, and a distinctive rifleman's belt. The soldier seated in full uniform—regulation forage cap, frock coat and accoutrements—gripping his saber bayonet prominently displayed, a classic pose symbolizing readiness and resolve.
 
What makes this image particularly moving is its status as a period copy tintype, almost certainly produced after the soldier's death during the war. Families frequently commissioned duplicate images from original ambrotypes, tintypes or Carte de visite to create additional keepsakes for grieving relatives, widows, or children. This tintype would have likely served as a cherished memento, carried in a pocket, locket, or placed on a mantel—preserving the likeness of a loved one lost to battle, disease, or hardship.
 
The tintype retains strong detail and good contrast for its size: facial features, uniform insignia, belt hardware, and bayonet blade are all clearly visible.