Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice, rare condition example of a complete Model 1858 “Smooth Side” Canteen from the American Civil War. Prior to 1858 canteens were made of wood or tin and came in a variety of forms and sizes. The two most prominent being the "barrel-type" made of wood with side slats like a barrel, and the "cheesebox-type" made of wood with a single wrap around side. Tin water bottles, similar to that used by the British Army, were also used, particularly towards the end of the 18th century.

This example has original wool cover with a very rare federal sling. The spout retains the rare chained stopper which attaches to one of the strap loops. The cover has some heavy material loss and staining from the period. The original cork is retained, rare to see, but it has some damage and material loss. The sling appears to have broken during the period and was tied off, with very heavy wear to the knots, giving the entire set an outstanding patina.

In 1858, a new standardized canteen was authorized and the Philadelphia Quartermaster Depot contracted with Albert Dorft of Philadelphia to produce the new item. The canteen was made of tinned iron, covered in sky-blue wool kersey, with a white linen shoulder sling. Coinciding with the start of the Civil War (April 1861), an improved version of the canteen was introduced. Known as the "bull's-eye" canteen, it had concentric circles embossed in the sides to add additional strength. Both patterns were produced for the Army throughout the war.

Some Civil War period canteens will have contractor information stamped into the side of the spout, however this one does not. The condition of the canteen is solid and shows the true wear of having been used through the most devastating war in U.S. History. The cover, sling, stopper and chain are all in fair condition and present, making this a rare example.

A lovely canteen ready for further research and display.