Frankford Arsenal Friction Primers Packet Dated 1864  

Description

Frankford Arsenal Friction Primers Packet Dated 1864  

An original Civil War-era packet of Friction Primers produced at Frankford Arsenal and dated 1864. The blue paper wrapper retains a crisp printed illustration of a friction primer along with the boldly printed designation, “FRICTION PRIMERS, FRANKFORD ARSENAL, 1864.” 
Friction primers were an essential component of Civil War artillery service, used to ignite cannon charges by means of a lanyard attached to the primer’s wire loop. When pulled, the friction composition ignited, transmitting flame through the vent and firing the piece. Frankford Arsenal, located in Philadelphia, was one of the Union’s principal ordnance manufacturing facilities and supplied vast quantities of ammunition and artillery components throughout the war. 

Original friction primer packets are increasingly difficult to locate, particularly those retaining strong color, legible printing, and an attractive display appearance. The iconic illustration of the friction primer on the label makes this a particularly desirable example for collectors of Civil War artillery, ordnance, and arsenal-manufactured equipment. 

A wonderful display piece representing one of the most important consumable components used by Union artillerymen during the American Civil War.  

Inventory Number: ART 492