Rare Civil War Abner H. Edwards Co. G 139th Illinois Infantry Tin Drum Canteen

Description

Here is an original Rare Civil War Abner H. Edwards Co. G 139th Illinois Infantry Tin drum canteen with brown wool cover and original linen sling. 7" diameter with the sides slightly convex and the seam forming a median ridge. Embossed with a 4" diameter ring on both sides. Tin spout, the original stopper attached to the sling with twisted string. 3/4" wide white linen sling, shows considerable wear with a couple of knots for repair and retains the original small iron roller buckle. Brown wool cover shows honest wear with a few small holes but 95% intact and generally excellent, several areas with brown spattering. Although bearing a striking resemblance to known forms of Confederate canteens, research indicates this is, in fact, a rare Illinois state issue, and Edwards initials, A. H. E., are lightly carved on the spout. One face of the canteen with very shallow dent at the top, the other face with a large diagonal dent, that almost gives the appearance of the piece having been run over by something. Please see PICs and email if you have any questions before bidding.