Here is an example of a Civil War leather cartridge box made for a percussion pistol. Considered part of a cavalry accoutrement set or an officer’s rig, this regulation issue pistol box is constructed from black bridle leather and measures 5¾” long by 3¾” high.  Artifact has all original stitching that is still strong and tight with no fraying visible. Box would accommodate three individual packets of .36 caliber ammunition (not included) for a total of eighteen cartridges.

Outer flap exhibits its leather closure tab that is intact but suffers from moderate flaking and cracking around the finial hole.  Not torn. A pear-shaped brass finial is securely attached to the box bottom. Outer flap exhibits just the slightest crazing to the leather and shows normal creasing and surface scuffing from use.   Most leather is dry. Appears to have had some leather cream applied at one time and it shows in the stitching areas as white spots. No inner flap. Backside of pistol box has a pair of tooled leather belt loops that are attached via stitching with no brass rivets. Artifact makes a nice addition to any Civil War collection.