Original U.S. Indian Wars M1874 .45/70 McKeever Cartridge Box with New Jersey Plate - Marked to Watervliet Arsenal - Springfield Trapdoor Rifle

Original Items: Only One Available. This is a very nice Model 1874 “McKeever” cartridge box, designed to hold twenty .45-70 "Government" cartridges for the Springfield Trapdoor rifle, ten on each side. These are held in place by fabric loops, and the box opens up like a clam shell, and is “hinged” at the bottom with a brass rod. A leather closure tab fastens to brass finial on the top. The box was a very well-liked design, so after the U.S. Army Adopted the Springfield Krag–Jørgensen in .30-40, they made a new version for the smaller .30 caliber cartridge.

This box is in good shape, with all parts intact, even the closure strap on the top, but the entire box has heavy wear. It features two narrow belt loops sewn and riveted to the back, and this example has a large oval NJ plate on the lid, indicating issue to the State of New Jersey, most likely to a national guard unit. The back of the box is stamped WATERVLIET ARSENAL. All of the canvas loops to hold 10 .45-70 cartridges sewn to each half are intact.

The stitching on the box remains strong. Black leather exterior has some very heavy wear and rubbing to the finish, but nothing has broken off. Ready to add to your collection and display!