[CIVIL WAR]. Union Canteen. [Circa 1860s]. Original tin canteen (approximately 180 mm diameter x 90 mm). With original cork closure attached to the mouth of the canteen by a small chain. Original leather carrying strap (with a stylized “B” carved into strap) with metal fixtures (approximately 340 mm long) and attached to canteen with original metal fasteners. Canteen covered in original rough tan cloth and stitches. With a large metal clasp attached to leather strap. Canteen shows soiling, wear, and age, but is still in excellent condition. Union canteens were made from tin, with the tin halves soldered together at factories (Confederate canteens were generally made of wood, mainly due to the lack of industrial production); many Union canteens were cut in half (soldiers would put them in campfires to melt the solder, thus producing 2 halves), and these halves were used for cookware and plates.