This flask is complete and in good condition for its age. Having the adjustable spout and charger release lever functioning properly. The body showing good detail designs, no large dents and only a couple small dings. One very small seam separation in the lower corner of one side about 1 ¼” long. Wearing an unpolished mellow patina to the brass-collar upper portion and a darker brown finish to the body. Raised portions of the high points in the design are lighter colored. Both rings on each side are present.

Robert Dingee had been supplying the government with powder flasks for riflemen since 1832, but the Ordnance Department became dissatisfied with his design and construction. In 1837 a contract was given to Ames, who produced a stouter flask with more attractive design, featuring an American eagle at top, a panoply of arms with US on a shield at the bottom. In between, the circle of 26 stars around sunburst rays framing a pair of clasped hands that likely symbolized fidelity, but gave rise to the nickname of “Peace Flask” among collectors, however contradictory that might sound for a military powder flask.

The markings on the top are fully legible “N.P. AMES/ 1838”. Also, on one side near the top of the body, just below the collar, are the initials “WS” of US Inspector William Smith, who inspected the flasks delivered under the 1837 contract. Ames had subsequent contracts for these in the 1840s (viewed by other inspectors,) along with flasks for the Navy, with Batty taking over production of this pattern, with some changes in the design, in 1847.

This would be a great addition to an accoutrement or specifically powder flask display, and would go well with an 1817 Common Rifle, Hall rifle, or others. Fixed cartridges were, of course, in use by this time, but the adjustable spout allowed for some precision and flexibility. It is likely, too, that militia rifle companies utilized them as emblems of an elite status. [stp][ph:L]

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