Original Revolutionary War small-size barrel canteen (SOLD)

This is another early piece coming out of a 60-year collection of French & Indian War, Revolutionary War, and War of 1812 artifacts. Being offered is a rare Revolutionary War 18th century barrel canteen, ca. 1750 – 1780. It appears to be made of pin and measures 5” x 3 ¾” x 3 ¼”. It is fashioned from a single piece of hollowed out wood and having slightly oval end pieces.  It has the original hand carved stopper as well.

Revolutionary War Era Army and/or Militia Soldiers would be required to bring a portable water canteen when reporting for duty. A size such as this would be convenient to carry in a backpack or attached to a cord. When used to carry liquor, they were called “rum kegs”.

It has the old original dark surface and smooth side form, very unique being without the common incised rings.  In the “Collectors Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution”, by Neumann & Kravic, there are comparable examples of this canteen (see pictures). I also have some similar canteens in my book “The Civil War Canteen – Third Edition”.

This collection began in the late 1950s and was created by private acquisitions, closed museums, diggers, and divers. The collector meticulously displayed and cataloged every piece along with any known provenance.

This is really a rare and historic piece being offered, and the first time it is on the open market. It definitely merits a place in an advanced collection or museum.  As with all the pieces in this esteemed collection, a Certificate of Authenticity will be included. As with all the items on the website, a very friendly layaway is available.