This is a very good and complete example of the US M1858 canteen as supplied by makers to the NY Depot, a branch of the U.S. Quartermaster’s Office of Clothing and Equipage. A distinguishing feature of canteens passing through this depot was the use of a metal chain instead of simple string to retain the stopper starting in 1862. This one also shows a full cap on the stopper, used from early 1863. The strap is the original folded cloth strap and is full length with minimal wear. The cover is a typical brownish gray wool showing some stains and dirt, typical for a canteen used in the field and filled in wells or creeks as opportunity offered on the march. There are a few small holes on one edge above the bracket, a couple more on one face and a small L-shaped tear that shows a nice period repair, likely by a soldier to stop it from tearing further.

This would be a key piece in any display of soldier’s field gear, go nicely with a haversack and issue mess cup, and shows a nice balance of field use and condition.  [sr] [ph:m]

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