A Short History of the Military Belt Buckle

Belt buckles have been a part of military uniforms for centuries. In fact, they were first introduced as a way to keep soldiers' cloaks fastened, and to secure armor and weapons during battle. The first belt buckle was created in the 13th century and was made out of iron. It wasn't until the 16th century that belt buckles began to be decorated with embellishments like jewels and engravings.

Belt buckles became increasingly decorative as time went on. For the military, belt buckles often indicated an officer's rank, and for civilians as well as soldiers, custom belt buckles were often a status symbol. By the 18th century, they were often made out of silver or gold and featured intricate designs. Belt buckles continued to be an important part of military uniforms into the 19th and 20th centuries, just as they are today.

US Navy Belts Worn by Today's Enlisted Sailors and Officers

The standard-issue Navy web belt is used by the majority of sailors, valued for its durability, ease of adjustment, and low cost to produce. It is worn with both the coveralls and the Navy Working Uniform Type III. But not all Navy personnel wear the same type or color of belt buckle, even if they are in the same unit together.

Navy Mustangs are also different from enlisted sailors and Chief Petty Officers, and no, it's not because they're horses. Rather, they are enlisted men and women who become commissioned officers in a short amount of time while serving on active duty continuously. This could be due to a recommendation from an officer in their division as well as completing their college degree, often done while deployed aboard ship in their spare time.

Mustangs are usually required to serve 5 years enlistment, earn a Good Conduct Medal, and have a degree. Highly regarded by both enlisted military and officers alike, Commanding Officers and Master Chiefs are very likely to appreciate having a "Mustang" around, as they provide an extra line of support in maintaining troop morale, especially since they've already "been there, done that, and got the t-shirt".

But don't worry, junior NCO's, because even enlisted sailors below the rank of E-7 can wear custom decorative belt buckles, though they'll have to be silver, as that is the standard color for the majority of enlisted sailors' belts.

Get Your Custom Gear Before End of Fiscal Year

There really is no better way for leadership to maximize their budget for next year and keep the troops happy than investing in their own sailors, soldiers, Marines or airmen. And what better way to show them they are valued members of not only their respective branch of service, but their ship, squadron, division or unit, than having their very own custom made belt buckle?

This year, make sure the people who serve alongside you are outfitted with the best gear possible by investing in a customized belt buckle from us. We specialize in creating high-quality, handmade belt buckles that will last a lifetime. Each buckle is made to order and can be customized with your unit's insignia, motto or crest.

With unlimited revisions, you're guaranteed to get a design you and your shipmates or fellow soldiers will love and be proud of for years to come. And some day, you'll even have a good story and a timeless memento from a life of dedicated service for your grandkids to appreciate.

So what are you waiting for? Turn your idea into reality. Order your custom belt buckles today!

U.S. DOD Coins is the leading manufacturer of the highest quality belt buckles specially designed for the U.S. military and first responders. See for yourself what tens of thousands of America's finest serving on the front lines already know firsthand.