Civil War Knapsack

[Civil War Geek]

Hey Gang,

I found an old knapsack that appears to be an original from the Civil War. Any opinions, based on your experience and knowledge? I'd love any feedback.



Real or Fake?


-Civil War Geek
Fl.

 

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[dennco2000]

Far out of my league to make the call but the the straps IMO do have the correct "patina"? But as I said do not give my opinion much credit there are far better civil war experts on this site than me, but it is definitely old, and they made versions of the "Knapp Sack" long after the civil war.

Most typical characteristics including (national guard) - Below.

Knapsack.

To be made of black enameled leather, sixteen inches wide, twelve and one-half inches high, and three and three-quarter inches deep; the corners to be bound with the same leather; the inside flaps to be of black glazed twilled muslin; two plain black leather straps to be fastened at the inside top of knapsack, one and one-quarter inches wide, to be buckled at bottom; shoulder straps of the same width to be fastened at center of inside knapsack by four copper rivets; the upper portion of the shoulder straps to be fifteen inches long, with two holes to receive brass stud; the right lower strap to be fourteen inches long, to fasten at the bottom with buckle; he breast strap to be seventeen inches long and three-quarters of an inch wide, to fasten on each end by brass stud, and connect in the center by buckle; three straps on top of knapsack, three-quarters of an inch wide, to buckle around the overcoat when rolled; a white painted number 7 on the outside, three and one half inches in length.

 

[BosnMate]

Definitely very old, but I don't know enough to make a call on authenticity. There are people on here that will know the answer though.

 

[Civil War Geek]

I agree with what you said about the straps,but im not sure.

 

[fyrffytr1]

Here's a link you may find interesting. Read the replies.
Civil War Federal Knapsack - FIELD & PERSONAL GEAR - U.S. Militaria Forum

 

[DigIron2]

The hooks look right !I would say you have something there.

 

[dennco2000]

After comparing to the other pics I vote yes authentic... whats date of the newspaper 1860 by any chance lol.

 

[Civil War Geek]

How much do you think its worth, given its condition.

 

[HomeGuardDan]

Looks good to me. I would send it to an expert on those (military uniforms and non-dug items).

 

[TheCannonballGuy]

Specifically, it is a US Army Model-1864 "softpack" knapsack. Prices of those vary widely, according to factors such as condition of the leather straps, the stitching, and the tarred-canvas fabric... and "completeness" (missing some of its hooks or buckles, etc, or not), and where you're trying to sell it (Ebay, or a civil war relic show, or an antique-shop). In recent years I've seen nice-condition, fully-complete ones sell for $100-$150. Of course, you'll see some sellers asking higher prices, but that doesn't mean somebody's going to actually pay the higher price.

 

[Civil War Geek]

Is there a good chance this was used in the civil war?