Original U.S. Mexican-American War Era Public Property Marked Powder Flask - Circa 1827

Original Item. Only One Available. These flasks were made for use with military rifles, particularly the 1817 Common Rifle, but could be used with the Hall or any of the older patterns still in service. Producing hollow-body copper flasks was a challenge. Few, if any, American makers at the time were up to it, but James Baker of Philadelphia contracted with the government for 2,000 in 1825. He then seems to have wisely subcontracted the work to a British firm and delivered them in 1827. He is thought to have had a second contract for 3,000 in late 1827, but details are sketchy.

This measures about 7 inches tall and 4 inches wide. The body is copper with a raised light infantry or rifleman’s bugle set horizontally on either side. The words “PUBLIC PROPERTY” in raised letters appear beneath it on one side.

This example is in good condition with the body not heavily dented. The spout is non-functional but still present, and unscrews without issue to inspect the interior. All four lugs are still in place, but the rings are gone besides one on the top.

This is a key piece in a collection of U.S. military accoutrements, particularly those for riflemen in the U.S. army and militia. The pattern changed just a few years later, but they continued in use in various designs into the 1850s and were often seen as identifying an elite rifleman. Comes ready for further research and display.