Original Union Cavalry Shell Jacket / On-hold

Description

Original Union Cavalry Shell Jacket 

The shell jacket proved to be a tough, light and very serviceable garment worn by Yankee cavalry troopers and mounted artillerymen during the war. Less expensive than the frock coats, these jackets were prescribed for issue to all mounted men in the Federal army.  This handsome, government-issue, Civil War cavalry uniform jacket is indeed one of the nicest to surface in the collecting field in some time. This specimen makes a stunning addition to any cavalry display or collection of cloth.  Referred to as a shell jacket, the type worn by countless Federal horse soldiers during the Civil War.

Constructed of fine wool material dyed a deep indigo blue with the blue color still rich and vibrant. Cloth body exhibits virtually no visible moth nips or holes so common in these wool garments. Jacket features a standup collar with a black japanned hook and eye stitched in. Approximately 2” tall with 3/8” wide, cavalry-yellow piping decorating the edges, collar is adorned with two, cuff size, eagle ‘shield’ brass buttons set back on each side. Both buttons are offset by additional short strips of yellow braid. Collar braid is bright, tight, and free of any seam separations at the center outside or inside seam as normally seen. Jacket front reflects the common 12-button closure with twelve, original brass eagle ‘shield’ buttons securely sewn to the flap edge. All buttons still have the original reddish/brown colored stitching with one that appear to be re-stitched. Both sleeve cuffs are functional with two brass eagle ‘shield’ buttons sewn on each cuff. Cuffs also exhibit the chevron-style, yellow piping. Cavalry piping also runs down the opposite (buttonhole) flap, circles around the entire bottom edge of the jacket and rises to each shoulder from the two belt-rest pads sewn on the jacket backside.

Interior body of this uniform jacket is padded and lined with original, light beige cotton cloth that is in exceptionally fine condition. All stitching appears original on the lining and on the padded interior panel area. Lining also sports a chest-high interior slash pocket. Jacket sleeves are also lined with dull beige cotton or muslin material in still very fine condition. Found stamped on the upper inner sleeve of the right shoulder is a maker mark. Opposite armpit also shows stamping in black ink. This is an original shell jacket produced by the government and was sold to a costume company after the war whose marking also adorn the lining of the jacket.  Apparently, little used or theatrical use based on condition.

Inventory Number: UNI 200