I have an original tin type of my great grandfather, and it's tiny, and would fit in that locket. I'm sure the size indicates that was all he could afford, the picture is in an album of other family photos, and he had joined the army, OVI, but in the photo you can't tell. Also a larger photo of a great Uncle, who was a 1st Lieutenant, and had a little more money. Just my swag though. Perhaps today I can search out that tintype and post it here.