Original U.S. Civil War M1858 Smoothside Canteen with Cover & Rare Federal Issue Sling

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice, rare condition example of a complete Model 1858 “Smooth Side” Canteen from the American Civil War. Prior to 1858 canteens were made of wood or tin and came in a variety of forms and sizes. The two most prominent being the "barrel-type" made of wood with side slats like a barrel, and the "cheesebox-type" made of wood with a single wrap around side. Tin water bottles, similar to that used by the British Army, were also used, particularly towards the end of the 18th century. This example has original wool cover with a very rare federal sling. The spout is scratched with the initials F.S., and the sling has an old repair as well as a knot repair as shown. The cover has some material loss and staining. The original cork is retained, still connected to its chain. In 1858, a new standardized canteen was authorized and the Philadelphia Quartermaster Depot contracted with Albert Dorft of Philadelphia to produce the new item. The canteen wa