Up for sale is an authentic, original late 19th-century U.S. Military Cavalry Kepi Forage Cap. This piece was recently recovered from long-term estate storage and is a genuine piece of American military history, not a modern replica or reproduction costume piece.

Authenticity & Originality Highlights:

Military Inspector Markings: The interior crown features distinct, authentic white-stamped period numbers ("I" and "42"). These represent official government depot or quartermaster inspector codes used during the Civil War and late 19th-century era.

Period Construction: The interior features a fragile, original glazed cotton/silk lining showing characteristic age-wrinkling and wear.Hardware: Outfitted with an original stamped brass U.S. General Service Union Eagle side button securing the leather chinstrap, as well as a metallic crossed-sabers cavalry insignia pinned to the front band.

Condition Report (Please Read Carefully Before Bidding):Visor/Brim: The painted paperboard/pasteboard visor shows significant age-related deterioration, including heavy flaking, cracking, and surface loss characteristic of 150+ year-old materials. It is fragile and must be handled with care.Storage Dust: The cap has not been cleaned, altered, or restored. There is a noticeable layer of original dust from decades of storage present on the wool body and in the crevices. I am leaving the cleaning or conservation of this piece entirely up to the winning bidder to preserve its historical integrity.Fabric & Lining: The dark wool body remains structurally intact with expected light surface wear. The inner lining is loose and delicate but remains present.Please review all photos carefully as they serve as the primary visual description of the item's condition. Sold exactly as found, as-is. A fantastic addition to any Civil War, Indian Wars, or general U.S. militaria collection!