At first whiff one might conclude this red "Chasseur style" cap was for an artillery man but this compiler and the highly respected dealer Will Gorgas, who studied this years ago, think it more likely that it was worn by a Zouave Officer with the rank of 1st Lieutenant. This is exactly what an officer with the many, if not all Zouave units formed early in the war, would have worn with their service blue regulation 1858 frock coats. The North African inspired Zouave get up was typically worn by non-commissioned personal. Please read this link (Fierce and Colorful - Zouave Regiments in the Civil War | War History Online).

The all red woolen broadcloth cap, which is entirely hand sewn, rises to 3 inches in the front and 6 inches up the back seam. The sides, front rear and crown bear 1/16-inch gold metallic tape which is a single strand; indicating the rank of 1st Lieutenant US or National Army. The tape on the 4 1/4-inch crown disc forms a quatrefoil pattern this is surrounded by a circle of tape around it. The base of the cap has a 1/4-inch band of metallic tape running its circumference. All the tape is hand tacked into place. The cap has a non-functional decorative 1/4 high chin strap of gold bullion that is held firmly in place by 2 eagle buttons. The Patent leather visor is 1 3/4 inches deep and is bound on the outer edge. The interior is fully lined with cotton that was probably once black. It feels brittle from age but 99% intact with some tears. The leather sweat band is hand whipped stitched into place and is 1 3/4 inches tall and 100% intact. The much-desired welt of red wool hides the junction between the visor and the body of the cap. There is the most minor of bug damage on this superb condition officer's kepi.

Such caps are impossible to find any more for condition and the fact that it was worn by an officer of Zouaves is off the charts for rarity. The cap was sold originally by Jack Noel Jacobson Jr. of Staten Island in 1996. In 2010 it was examined and blessed by one of this country's foremost experts on uniforms; this information passes to the buyer.    [pe] [ph:L]

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