Of all the items in our collection, this is one of our most prized and neatest.  This was purchased years ago from an older gentleman from upstate Vermont.  He was the last living family member in a long line of grave diggers.  This dates from the late 1600's to early 1700's.  All hand forged, this steel plate would have been worn on the bottom of a grave diggers shoe.  Early footwear did not offer the protection of modern boots and this protected the sole of the diggers foot while using the metal spade. This went from the toe to about the heel area. There is a downward bend on the back edge of this to prevent the foot from slipping off the spade. The leather strap and buckle are old, but more than likely not original.  This listing is for a short time and may not be listed again.