This is a possibility...
However as mentioned the stars are larger (abt 4.25/4.5) a bit different from the typical 3rd bunting which averages around 3.5, and the patterns noted and examined of many other 3rd buntings seem to all closely follow the given pattern and star size. I havent seen very many deviations from a given pattern less the minor details related to skills of the seemstress assembling it, especially to this degree if it is a depot issue. Also I could see no obvious or apparent evidence in the material that could initially suggest it ever even had a center star.. The unit in question was sitting on the outskirts of Charleston SC during the time frame that the 3rd buntings were being issued out of Richmond to the units in the ANV.... This of course doesnt completely rule out the possibility but makes it a bit less likely and skeptical... Thus the group inquiry...

Frederick