March 1864 Pattern U.S. Cartridge Box / SOLD

March 1864 Pattern U.S. Cartridge Box - Inventory Number:  LEA 322 / SOLD

In 1864 the Ordnance Department ordered improvements to the pattern of 1861 cartridge box. The changes made in these boxes were made due to the strains of heavy campaigning over the first three years of the Civil War. The changes included narrowing of the back straps to 7/8" to be riveted and sewn. Rivets were to be added to the bottom buckles and the stitch changed from a straight stitch to a new crescent stitch. A rivet was added to the closure tap on the front flap. The outer flap is in very good condition with supple leather and all its original finish, and still retains the original US box plate with a rich uncleaned patina. The interior closure flap, rear belt loops, brass finial, and roller buckles are all present and complete. The interior closure flap is marked “WATERTOWN ARSENAL 1864. Both interior cartridge tins are present. The implement pouch is present and in good condition. The rough-out finish sling is strong, supple, and in very good condition, complete with the original eagle breast plate with matching patina to the box plate. An excellent representative Civil War cartridge box.

 Inventory Number:  LEA 322 / SOLD