Civil War copper powder flask, marked “American Flask & Cap Co.”

This is another great piece being offered, it is a maker-marked Civil War flask. It is made of copper/brass and measures 8 ½” x 4”. It was made by The American Flask and Cap Co. and their name is engraved near the spout “AM FLASK & CAP CO”. They started their business in New York City in 1857 and continued throughout the Civil War.

By the 1860s, flask making was an increasingly industrialized process. Because of the increased demand, factories like the one owned by the American Flask & Cap Co. mass produced thousands of powder flasks for hunters and the military. Usually hunter examples had ornate designs, while the military preferred plain flasks, such as this one. The company also put out a catalog which allowed customers to order from a variety of styles and sizes.

This flask is in nice condition and has a beautiful untouched patina. As expected, there are small dings, but this shows that it seen use through its lifetime. Powder flasks and parts of flasks have been a common find at Civil War sites for many years. This one is about as nice as they come.