The complete leather surface of this piece shows very little wear and is in excellent condition.

The outside face of the box has a small oval brass plate with the initials “NG” for “National Guard” done in script. Plate is untouched condition with a light patina. Plate is still anchored by the original wire pin on the inside.

Box opens by the means of two brass hinges. The interior has the original wooden block with 18 drilled holes for cartridges. The body of the box has two strong stampings. The first is all the patent information and reads “FRAZIER’S PATENT, FEBY. 5TH 1872, REISSUED MCH. 5TH 1878, PATENT APRIL 23RD, 1878.” The second is the maker’s stamp of “McKENNEY & CO., NEW YORK.”

Back has two excellent belt loops. Top has brass finial and catch. There is a slight buildup of verdigris around the edges of the brass pieces as is normal.

This is a first rate example of a Frazier box.  [ad]