Civil War Small Pocket "Spy Glass" telescope (SOLD)

This is another nice item piece being offered, it is a small double-draw Civil War “Spy Glass” telescope. It is made of brass and measures 6 ½” when opened and 3” when closed. It is void of any markings, which is typical for the era.

Telescopes such as these were an important tool of the artillery, Cavalry and Field officers. Being a smaller size, it would be considered a pocket spy glass, ideal for carrying in a haversack or coat pocket. In “Civil War Artifacts”, by Howard Crouch, there is a similar example that was excavated in Fredericksburg (see pictures).

The exterior is brass with a wood veneer; it has a hairline age crack but does not distract at all from the appearance. No doubt this telescope was used, but overall, in nice condition. It would fit in well with an officer’s, artillery, or cavalry display.