Leather percussion cap box. Hand-inscribed "H.W.J." to flap. Lead finial. Lined with original fleece, lacking pick. Approx. 4 x 1 1/2 x 3 7/16 in.

A period label affixed to the box's reverse reads as follows: "Rebel Cap Box / Newberne N.C. Mar 18th / 1862". The Battle of New Berne, in which Union forces led by Brigadier General Ambrose Burnside overtook Confederate defenses under Brigadier General Lawrence Branch, was fought just 4 days prior. As the vanquished Confederates, approximately 3500 strong, hurriedly withdrew from the city, near all unworn equipment was abandoned, leaving plenty of trophies for the arriving Union soldiers to pocket. 

A fine Confederate relic, enhanced by a connection to an important North Carolina battlefield. One original percussion cap remains within the box. There is a separation to the latch tab which has evidence of attempted repairs or reinforcements, else no significant structural wear.

[Civil War, Union, Confederate] [Militaria, Accouterment, Equipment, Uniforms]