This is the U.S. infantry 1864 cartridge box, complete and original, with an “experimental” sling hook riveted to the top.

Original leather cartridge box for infantryman of the 1864 pattern.  Outer flap shows usual surface cracking and wear for age. Front of flap features embossed US within an oval. Closing tab shows cracks in finish but is complete and unbroken and remains tightly stitched and riveted. Inner flap is in good condition with nice finish, and with one of the “ears” still tightly attached. The other is detached and is in the top of the tin. This inner flap is boldly marked with an “E. METZGER / PHILA” and a sub-inspector’s stamp.  Implement pouch is likewise in good condition.  Both tins remain within the box. The two buckles on the bottom are stitched and riveted, and brass finial is solidly in place.  Belt and shoulder strap loops on back remain in place also tightly stitched and riveted.

What is unusual about this specimen is the brass sling hook riveted to the top of the outer flap. It is known that the Federal arsenals experimented with pieces to improve the longevity and what we now call “ergonomics” of military equipment. This “addition” consists of a brass hook and a short bridle leather strap. Using what appears as a Civil War-era copper rivet, the fixture is attached to the top of the outer flap. Possibly thought up as something akin to the Mann’s patent system of shoulder straps.

Overall, a good M1864 cartridge box for display.   [jet] [ph:L]

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