Revolutionary War 18th century Tinder Box w/ Striker, Tinder and Flint (SOLD)

This is another nice piece coming out of a 60-year collection of French & Indian War, Revolutionary War, and War of 1812 artifacts. Being offered is a Revolutionary War brass tinderbox, ca. 1760 – 1790. The hinged box is brass and measures 4 ¼” x 2 ½” x 1”. Inside the box is the striker, flax and flint. A tinderbox, or patch box was used to kindle a fire.

Tinderboxes would have been carried by all soldiers, American and British – it was their only means of starting a fire. In fact, even George Washington had one in his personal camp chest. In “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution”, by Neumann & Kravic, there are a variety of tinderboxes shown (see pictures).

This is a very nice example and in great condition with its untouched patina. These tinderboxes fell out of general usage when friction matches were invented. This collection began in the late 1950s and was created by private acquisitions, closed museums, and divers. The collector meticulously displayed and cataloged every piece along with any known provenance.  As with all the pieces in this esteemed collection, a Certificate of Authenticity will be included.