Civil War Six-Pack of Skin Cartridges for Navy Revolvers 

Description

Civil War Six-Pack of Skin Cartridges for Navy Revolvers 

 

Exceptional complete original paper-wrapped package of six Civil War-era “Seamless Skin” revolver cartridges, retaining its printed factory label and original string. The label reads in part: 

“Six Seamless Skin CARTRIDGES, for Colt, Whitney, or Remington’s NAVY PISTOL, .36-100 Calibre. Hotchkiss’ Patent, Feb. 11th, 1862. Manufactured for W. J. Syms & Bro., 300 Broadway, New York.” 

 

These combustible cartridges were manufactured as ready-to-load ammunition for the popular .36 caliber Colt, Whitney, and Remington Navy percussion revolvers. The “seamless skin” cartridge utilized a thin combustible envelope containing the powder charge and projectile, allowing the soldier to insert the complete cartridge directly into the revolver cylinder rather than loading loose powder and ball. 

 

Particularly desirable is the survival of the entire unopened six-round packet, still enclosed in its original paper wrapper with the printed label substantially intact and the original carrying/pull string present. Individual cartridges are encountered with some regularity, but complete factory packets are considerably more difficult to obtain—especially examples retaining such a legible maker and patent label. 

 

The February 11, 1862 Hotchkiss patent date, New York manufacturer information, specific reference to the three principal Navy-size revolvers, and untouched character of the package make this an outstanding example of Civil War small-arms ammunition. A scarce and highly displayable accessory for any quality Civil War revolver, ammunition, or ordnance collection. 

 

 

Inventory Number: BUL 551