Vintage / Antique Epaulettes Gold Bullion Number 55 Mexican War Era

Description

These are a vintage pair of epaulettes that appear to be early, possibly Mexican War era but I am unsure of the date or origin.  These may indeed be European.
I am not an expert on militaria and these were in a group of other items purchased from the 1840s -1860s era.
They are red velvet material with metal rounds on the end and embroidered number 55 in gold bullion type thread.  Nice condition with minor losses, mostly on underside.  Measure about 8" long.