Original Watervliet Indian War US M1874 McKeever Cartridge Box

Made by the Watervliet Arsenal, this original item is a 2th pattern style and was designed to hold cartridges for the US M1873 Trapdoor Rifle chambered in .45-70 Government. This is the second pattern box, indicated by the presence of the brass corner staples and tab escutcheon. This pattern would remain in use throughout the Indian Wars period and Spanish American War. The box remains in good to very good condition, showing signs of age, use, and wear. The leather shows crazing and drying, and flaking of the finish from age. The markings are deep and clear on both the bottom of the latch tab and inside the box "A.R.Smith & H". Webbing is all intact and hardware has just a hint of verdigris. Around 7" wide and 4" tall.