Rare Variant Civil War Canteen / SOLD

Rare Variant Civil War Canteen - Inventory Number: CAN 135 / SOLD

Scarce, complete example of variant model 1858 “smooth side” canteen. The canteen body is made from tin that is significantly thinner and lighter than the regulation pattern. Each half of the body has a pronounced, squared lip around the edge, where one half fits into the other and are soldered together. This construction technique is referred to as an “ogee edge” in Mike O’Donnell’s U.S. Army & Militia Canteens 1775-1910.” The original herringbone twill sling is held in place by three narrow, folded tin loops soldered to the canteen body. The spout is rolled tin soldered at the seam, and the cork stopper exhibits a small wire pull and domed tin cover. The cork is secured to the wire pull by a washer that is soldered in place. The stopper chain is made from thin brass wire and is tack soldered to one of the tin sling loops. The cover is a light reddish-brown cloth with remnants of a velvet nap finish. An unusual variant canteen that may be Confederate manufactured or an early war union state contract. 

Inventory Number: CAN 135 / SOLD