Presented here is an original, unopened Federal .58 caliber paper wrapped cartridge in good condition. This artifact is considered the most common type of ammunition used with muzzleloaders during the Civil War. The .58 caliber minie ball and its accompanying powder charge are still encased within the original beige or tan colored paper wrap. The wrap is somewhat loose at the end and the paper exhibits a significant weak part above the charge.

To load his musket, the soldier tore (or bit) off one end of the paper and poured the powder down the muzzle of the barrel. Muzzleloaders used bullets that were slightly smaller than the bore diameter of the barrel in order for the weapon to be loaded properly with the common .58 caliber minie ball measuring a diameter of .574 inches. This specimen of standard rifled-musket ammunition is an original example of a Civil War Federal infantryman's paper cartridge.

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