I also agree that tobacco tabs are the best bet for the horseshoe-shaped
objects.  However, similar horsehoe-shaped hardware with three tangs were
also pounded into boot heels to retard wear and military-style cavalry
boots from around WW I, at least, came equipped with them.  These
elements tend to be smaller but much more robust than tobacco tabs and
should be easily distinguishable.

Everett Bassett


> Dear Listmembers:
>
> Thanks to all that have played previous guessing games.  Those
responding
> have provided numerous leads which have payed off in our research.
> Attached is a new one. On the left side of the attached photo is a
small
> horseshoe-shaped metal object (1/2 inch) that has three pointed tangs
that
> are usually found bent over (possible providing securement to
cloth/paper).
>  The miniature horseshoes are found occasionally in abundance with beer
> bottles and in isolation with personal effects.
>
> Next to the horseshoes are metal discs that are concave in the center,
> penetrated by a centered hole, and has scalloped outside edges.  These
> objects are approximately 3/4 inch in diameter and 3/8 inch deep.  They
are
> found in various situations.
>
> As in the past, the material is coming from railroad construction camps
> associated with the Salt Lake Route, ca. 1904.  Thank you in
anticipation
> for any responses..ww