This is a very good condition, classic Civil War officer’s kepi, defined by the inset crown, of medium height, somewhat taller than a chasseur style. It is a very good quality cap, privately purchase as all officer’s gear was since they had to purchase their own. The visor is typically flat, painted leather, and has a bound edge. The interior is lined in black silk and has the extra quality touch of being quilted on the underside of the top. The side buttons are NY state seals with stars surrounding the seal on a lined field indicating a staff officer. They have some gilt finish remaining and seem to be original to the cap with the chinstrap, though chinstraps and side buttons were often the first to go and be replaced.

The sides and top are ornamented with three rows of black cording: the exterior black strands of the wrapping have shifted in places, exposing the some of the lighter interior strands, but we would leave it exactly as is.  The overall color of the body is very strong. We see just some scattered pinhole moth nips. The interior is very good as well. The sweatband is in place, firmly attached, and with a nice line of decoratively colored thread along its upper edge, anchoring the black silk side lining. There are a few short runs or tears to the lining on the sides and some on the underside of the top showing the batting, but no large holes, and they are nice indicator the cap saw some use.

The three rows of braid likely indicate a major by rank, which would fit with the staff buttons since they were sometimes worn both by field and staff officers, opening it up for use by any branch of service. The number of braids usually corresponds to the regulations for the sleeve of the officer’s overcoat, with one line for a First Lieutenant, two for a Captain, and three for a Major, though there may have been some variation among the volunteer forces and officers would not lay aside a good cap after a promotion. In any case, this is a very nice condition, original Civil War officer’s cap that could have been worn at any point in the war and one that would dress up any collection or display.  [sr] [ph:M]

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