Civil War Cavalry Uniform, “Shell” Jacket -SOLD

Description

The standard uniform jacket initially issued to cavalry, more commonly referred to the “Shell” jacket. The blue wool uniform jacket is trimmed in yellow worsted wool tape, and has a twelve button front.  There are two buttons each on the cuffs and two each on either side of the stand-up collar. In the lower rear of the jacket are two pillows that are there to support the saber belt. The interior is lined in a white muslin as well as in the sleeves. Marked within the right sleeve is a sizing stencil (“2”).  There are no other markings.  As usual, the bulk of the jackets found on the market are these that never were issued, as the Army had these in inventory for years following the war. Many bear the markings of costume companies, but fortunately this is not one of those. The buttons are all general service eagle types, all original to the coat. Several of the buttons have been re-enforced with newer threads, either having come lose or completely coming off.

The condition is excellent both for tightness of stitching, and color. There is some moth tracking in the middle left front, but is very light and hard to see from a close distance.  Most suitable for display. A wonderful example.  – SOLD