AN EARLY 1858 INFANTRY FORAGE CAP, POSSIBLY PRE-CIVIL WAR MANUFACTURE

AN EARLY 1858 INFANTRY FORAGE CAP, POSSIBLY PRE-CIVIL WAR MANUFACTURE

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$3,950.00

Quantity Available: 1

Item Code: 1316-02

Shipping: Determined by Method & Location of buyer

To Order:
Call 717-334-0347,
Fax 717-334-5016, or E-mail

This quality private or state purchase hat has early features that distinguish it from those typical mass-produced war contracts. The hand sewn dark blue wool broadcloth cap rises close to 7 inches in the rear and 3 inches in the front, The top disc which is waterproofed on the underside is 5 1/2 inches in diameter. There are scattered losses of small to moderate size from insects; non are unsightly. There are minor places of discoloration due to use and wear. The 1/8-inch-thick prominent Patent leather peak designed with an intentional warp downward at either side is 2 1/4 inches deep and 6 1/2 inches across; it has a look reminiscent of pre-1858 US headgear. This bill has a Patent leather binding and was green dyed underneath reminiscent of better-quality caps of the era. On the top disc is a company letter "I" that is 1 inch high and a regulation stamped brass infantry horn that within it has the 3/4 of an inch high brass number "64". This is a single die strick with the numerals con- joined. Such devices are seen just prior to and very early in the War of 1861. They proved unpopular and their use was generally discontinued.

There is a 1/2-inch-high Patent leather working chinstrap with a quality stamped brass buckle; it is held securely by 2 enlisted grade eagle buttons. The interior of this cap is lined on the sides with brown, oxidized from black, polished cotton. The top disc was made exposed and is waterproofed with lamp black and varnish. The mid-brown sweat band is brittle but stable and 90% intact. It is hand whipped stitch into place. At the join between the body of the cap and the bill there is a bead of fabric there to hide the join.

This is a great looking piece of headgear easily understood appreciated by those knowledgeable in the collecting field. It is of a form worn by the first volunteers, and it is sad we cannot today determine from what state the wearer of the 64th Infantry cap emanated.   [pe] [ph:L]

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