Civil War canteens were issued covered in several different colors of fabric. Light blue covers have always been favored by collectors because of their rarity and eye appeal. This one is complete with stopper, chain and full-length shoulder sling. The cover has no appreciable moth damage, holes or discoloration, just a little dirt and dust from age. The body is smooth sided and the use of a chain to retain the stopper is characteristic of canteens supplied on contract to the New York Depot. The sling is very good. It is original and full length, and knotted as many were to hang it up or make it more convenient to carry. The sling is solid, but does show some of the usual fraying to the edges, often from rubbing against the side brackets, and a collector closed up a 3-inch or so run along one edge with some loose stitches. This is very minor. The chain and stopper ring also show some rust, which could be carefully cleaned.

Canteens were an essential piece of field gear- sometimes more valuable to a soldier than even his weapons. This is a superior example of a Civil War issue Union canteen in a desirable color and it is in much better condition than most of those on the market today of any color. This catches the eye from across the room and would add to any Civil War display.  [sr]

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