"PRITCHARD & BRO. ROCHESTER N.Y." MAKER MARKED & "US" SURCHARGED LEATHER CAP BOX

Description

This offering is for a well worn, totally ORIGINAL, and completely estate-fresh and UN-touched Federal issued leather percussion cap box, nicely  "US" surcharged on the outer flap, and maker marked on the inner flap to what I presume was a very small cottage maker, "Pritchard & Bro. Maker, Rochester N.Y." In doing a brief on line search, I've as yet not been able to come up with another single piece of leather gear by this maker...a rarity or simply due to rate of attrition? I've not a clue, however this one certainly DOES appear to have "seen the elephant", so to speak. The outer blackening has much surface cracking and areas of loss, however there's no leather missing. The right side "ear" of the inner flap is literally barely hanging on by a thread, however it's miraculously still there, and could, I suppose, be carefully reattached. The outer-most flap still retains its closure flap, and the brass finial is also still intact, as are BOTH of the rear belt loops. There's a trace of the original fleece remaining to the interior, but not much....and there is NO NIPPLE PICK, however the little leather loop is still intact in which it was originally sheathed. The outer flap has a nicely incised "US", another feature that you won't often see on percussion cap boxes, at least from my experience. That, coupled with the clear makers mark help to compensate somewhat for the fragile nature of the leather, however the flaps are still pliable, and if handled carefully, the box will maintain its integrity...(I would however, suggest re-attaching or at least, reinforcing the right side ear prior to it becoming completely detached...). Anyway, if you are a collector of original Civil War accouterments, this will make a nice addition to your collection. It can be displayed as is, or if one so chooses, I'm sure it would also benefit from the application of a good quality leather dressing. I, however, am offering it exactly AS IS / AS FOUND, straight out of a local estate. This is a nice representative box w/ nice markings, so don't miss it!
Buyer is responsible for actual postage costs, to be tabulated at close of sale based on buyers location and method shipped* (**Typically via USPS Priority Mail which may include insurance and / or signature confirmation fees). Payment is due within 48 hours of close of sale, however please DO NOT remit payment prior to receipt of invoice. Massachusetts residents are responsible for state sales tax of 6.25% unless a valid Ma. resale number is provided. I do not, as a rule, post any items to China or far eastern European (former Soviet bloc / Russian Federation), countries. Internationals sale via the Global Shipping Program (GSP), ONLY. Lastly, buyer must be at least 21 years of age to purchase. Thank you.