M1861 .69 Caliber Cartridge Box With Narrow Buff Sling

M1861 .69 Caliber Cartridge Box With Narrow Buff Sling.  There is little doubt that this box and sling have been together from the start or at the very least, a short time thereafter.  The box has no contract markings. It is complete with the tins. The flap has overall crazing of leather and some chipping, as well as on some areas on the back side.

There may be some more detailed information on the use of this sling, being buff leather, white on the back, and blackened on front, now showing the typical color turning to a brownish color. There may some validity to the idea, that a maker, granted  contracts for 1861 boxes, may have used up belt stock for some of contracted State accoutrements.  Width of the sling is 1 3/4″.

The cartridge box has has some tender care used on the flap to preserve the loss of any more leather, which is minimal. A good box in .69 caliber