This is one of the rarest cartridge boxes you'll get a chance at. This is the scarce Mann's patent cartridge box. They were designed by Colonel William Mann of the 7th Michigan Cavalry. He wanted to design a cartridge box that went in front of the soldier rather than dangling by his side by the usual shoulder strap. In addition from this type of position for carrying the tin on the inside has a tray that slides up to make the cartridge easier to get to, a great addition to the design. This one has the original tray intact and as you can see it is in nice well worn shape. The outer flap of this box has the mark of "US" and the wording around the "US" reads "COL. MANN'S PATENT REISSUE JUNE 7TH 1864" and "E. GAYLORD MAKER CHICOPEE, MASS." you can also see the remnants of the US Ordnance Department inspector stamp on the right-hand side of the outer flap. This is where it was approved for military use by A.D. Laidley who inspected for the US Ordnance Department. The original closure tab and brass finial are still present on the cartridge box. When you open up the outer flap you see that it has the original implement compartments intact. The closure tab is still present. One thing that makes this set so special is that it retains both of the original over the shoulder straps and they are in fine condition. They even have the original brass length adjusters intact. As you can see all of the leather parts have a beautiful black tone to the leather and it displays superbly. These Mann's patent cartridge boxes were so unique that of the few regiments that were equipped with them. After one battle they were able to distinguish the dead men of the regiment because only they had the Mann's boxes on. This box is in nice condition all over as you can see but there is some flaking to the outer flap. If you can find an old copy of the 2001 North South Trader Magazine article it tells some of the history of this truly revolutionary designed cartridge box. This is a fantastic piece that is one of the scarcest of all Civil War cartridge boxes and it is complete with the over the shoulder straps.