Union Army Uniforms and Insignia of the Civil War

Epaulettes

Epaulette

Epaulette (without ormaments)

Epaulettes were gold with silver grade (rank) insignia. Epaulettes differed according to the insignia (devices) they displayed and the diameter and length of the bullion fringe hanging from the end. The devices indicated grade, branch of service and in some cases regimental number. They were worn when the uniform was worn as a dress uniform.


Grade Diameter of Bullion Length of Bullion
General Officer Grades 1/2 inch Three and 1/2 inches
Field Officer Grades 1/2 inch Three and 1/2 inches
Captains 1/4 inch Two and 1/2 inches
Lieutenants 1/8 inch Two and 1/2 inches

MORE: Discussion of Wearing Epaulettes in Combat
MORE: Grade devices of epaulettes
MORE: Grade devices of epaulettes (detail)
MORE: Infantry Epaulette Circlets
MORE: photograph of officer wearing epaulettes
MORE: Original Epaulettes Colonel, Lt. Colonel,and 2nd Lieutenant
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