For various reasons in 1868 the Ordnance Board issued Memoranda #9 that read;

“TINNING ARTILLERY AND CAVALRY BITS – The Board recommend (sic) that all new artillery and cavalry bits should be tinned, and that all old bits requiring repairs or cleaning should likewise be tinned, instead of bluing or replating.” *

When the bits were repaired and tinned the sturdier “US” boss was put on in place of the intertwined “USA.”

This particular bit is complete with all the proper rings and mounts and with the heavier brass “US” bosses. A close look near the bosses and inside of the keepers shows hints of tin plating. This bit was refurbished under the 1868 directive and then the tinning was removed to bring it back to its wartime appearance. The removal of the tin plating looks to have been done long ago as the bit surface has a dark patina.

The bar of the port is stamped with a “US.”

*Thanks to the website of  McPheeters Militaria for information on the Ordnance Board Memoranda #9   [ad]

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