Original Item: Only One Available. This is an incredible condition Federal Issue Cartridge Box which has certainly seen some service during the American Civil War! This is a genuine Federal Issue leather Pattern 1855 Cartridge Box even retains the original matched/equal height tin inserts, something rarely seen anymore.

This is a scarce cartridge box. With the adoption of new model arms In 1855 the army decided to modify the design and size of the cartridge box. A new pattern was adopted in 1857, and production started on the new pattern. It is quite similar to the previous pattern, the Patter 1839. The size was changed to hold the new .58 caliber ammunition. In addition, waist belt loops were added to the body of the box on the reverse. With the start of the war in 1861, the army issued large numbers of the smooth bore 69 caliber muskets. The summer of 1861 contracts were issued for 69 cal round ball boxes in the new pattern 1857. The numbers produced were small and most if not all were issued.

The Outer flap has light surface wear with a latch tab that is attached by a row of stitching, though the tab itself is torn away towards the bottom, which is unfortunately a common sight to see with these old cartridge boxes.

The interior flap is intact with side ears of the flap both intact. Tool pouch is intact with flap closure tab missing. Leather shows signs of obvious age, flaking, and so on. With the exterior showing a well conserved finish with cracking and crazing.

The original matching tins are present with just a bit of oxidation. The box plate is securely in place by the means of copper wire, but may not be original to the cartridge box.

The interior has the remnants of what appears to be a name. It is quite difficult to read, but it does appear to be J. K. WHITE, with what also appears to be a possible unit or location written further below.

This is an excellent example of a classic piece of Civil War equipment. Perfect for a collector looking to simply have a representative example, or an advanced collector!