Federal Dismounted Enlisted Overcoat with Infantry “I” buttons on the coat.

This federal enlisted overcoat was worn by an infantry officer, who added officer’s infantry “I” buttons to the coat, leaving the smaller general service cape buttons in place.  There is no history with this coat.  Field officers commonly wore these enlisted overcoats as from a distance it would be harder for enemy snippers to distinguish officers from the ranks. Also many enlisted men were promoted to officer rank while in the field, and adding “I” buttons would have been the only mark of rank visible.  This coat was bathed in a anti-moth solution in 1873 before put away in quartermaster stores.  This could have been turned in by an officer at the end of the war, and or redrawn from QM stores in the early indian war era prior to issue of the new pattern overcoats.  Either way, this is a war time manufactured overcoat.  The sleeve marking is for Cowles & Co. patent process for de-mothing, waterproofing, and mildew.

Condition is very good -fine. Some mothing but nothing glaring, and displays fabulously.