Rare, stylish sixth-plate ambrotype of a sailor wearing a unique belt buckle of a three-masted sailing ship. We have never seen another buckle with this design - it is quite possibly a truly one of kind image of a man of the sea.  This dashing, self-assured gentleman, with dark wavy hair, a thin mustache and soul patch was obviously proud of his chosen profession and surely quite popular in all the ports! The image is in very good minus condition with nice tones and contrast. Under close examination there is some crackling in the collodion, with some small spots, which are barely noticeable when viewing in person.  This cool ambrotype is housed in an equally beautiful rust-red velvet book-style case. The front cover appears more rust-colored, while the back seems more red, which is likely the original color. Both are in excellent condition. 
$100