Original Item: Only One Available. This is a worn example of a Federal Issue M-1861 Cartridge Box which is missing its belt plate. This box comes with the original tins, but the closure tab is entirely gone, although the knob is retained.

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. In 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 heavy surface wear and the latch strap is gone. Both Cartridge box strap buckles are intact and sewn securely in place. The interior flap is intact with side ears of the flap both intact. The tool pouch is intact with a flap and closure tab. Leather shows signs of obvious age, flaking, and so on. With the exterior showing a well conserved finish. On the interior was a note reading:

CARTRIDGE POUCH AND
BELT BELONGED TO
ROBERT MILLER - OF
ST. LOUIS - MO.
WHO DIED DURING THE
CIVIL WAR OF AN EPIDEMIC.

We could not identify Miller, but there is a lot of research to do on this one. 

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