Federal Model 1858 ‘Bullseye Canteen

Description

Federal Model 1858 ‘Bullseye Canteen

 

Original specimen of the Federal Model 1858 ‘Bullseye’ pattern tin canteen in very good condition.  Issued to all Union troops in the field, the example comes complete with a desirable blue kersey wool covering, cork stopper, iron pull ring and cotton carry sling.

 

This example has a series of reinforcing rings extruded on each side.  Its original cork stopper and iron pull ring are complete as is the cotton twine string which is typically broke or lacking in general making it as complete an example as they come.

 

The bullseye pattern of concentric rings began in 1861 as an effort to increase the durability of canteen equipment. Fluid capacity of the canteen was three pints and its contents were kept cool by means of a damp or wet wool cover.

 

This cover, made of original, sky blue material, is handsewn along the canteen seams. The cover is in very good condition with a great blue hue. Canteen consists of two circular sections of pressed-tin, formed in an oblate spheroid pattern and soldered together at the rim. Pewter spout is unmarked.  The iron pull ring is intact and the cork stopper is complete.  The linen carrying strap has turned to a darker beige color and exhibits light soiling in spots from use in the field. This complete ‘Bullseye’ or corrugated pattern canteen is a very good example, carried and as essential to the soldier as his musket.

The blue examples represent the most desirable specimens of the Civil War, a hard to improve upon specimen!

Inventory Number: CAN 216