Non-plate style brass belt buckle

[Highlander31]

What I would do is let it tarnish a bit more and then clear coat it. The proper patina on brass and copper can look really sharp.

My wife said something similar, when she saw me getting into the cabinet where the cleaners, polishes, etc., are kept. She reminded me, I also wear this belt and buckle with my great kilt for the renfaires. (Though, we do not go to them as much since we moved here to a rural part of the coast.) I like your suggestion of clear coating it. I did that in the Army with my brass. Gave it a good polishing, then took it to a jeweler, who gave it a good buffing, then sealed it. Never had to polish my brass again (it's too bad I couldn't have done that with my boots and low quarters, as well.)

So bowing to a greater authority, I have decided to let it tarnish a little more. However, my wife felt I shouldn't waste the effort in opening the cabinet. Coincidentally, her knee high boots needed a polishing, and since I like the way they look on her,....I polished them.