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BRASS KITTREDGE CARTRIDGE BOX – VERY NICE CIVIL
WAR HENRY RIFLE RELATED ACCOUTREMENT: One of
the more desirable accoutrements of the Civil War, this
Kittredge Brass Cartridge Box has been closely
associated by collectors as one of the primary
accoutrements to display with the famous Henry Rifles.
Introduced during the Civil War these unique cartridge
boxes are formed of entirely of brass. The lid is
stamped “B. KITTREDGE & CO., PATENTED JAN 27, 1863,
REISSUED APL 14, 1863”. This specimen has a pleasing
patina, yet shows no hard use or damage, nor any dents
or misshaping. Both brass belt loops are present and
full form and the lid closes flush as it should. These
cartridge boxes were fitted with a steel tension spring
riveted to the reverse with a tip that rested on the
lid, keeping the lid shut. The spring on this box was
carefully removed for some reason, possibly done by a
soldier or frontiersman who grew tired of fighting his
way past the stiff trap-like lid to the cartridges.
There was no damage done to the brass in the process of
removing the spring and this piece still retains its
attractive appearance. Given the overall rarity of
these Kittridge Boxes, the missing spring is a small
consideration. The Kittredge boxes have become more
difficult to find in this condition and this specimen
would add significantly to your Civil War collection.
$1150
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