This is an authentic Spanish-American War, United States Army M1878 Canteen . This model was the standard issue field canteen utilized by U.S. troops during the late Indian Wars and the Spanish-American War era.
Description:
It features a heavy tan/khaki cotton canvas cover with a prominent "U.S." stenciled in black & bold, two triangular metal sling loops on the sides, a pewter spout, and an original cork stopper secured by a chain. Measures approximately 8" in diameter.
Maker Marks
a). Visible at the bottom edge is R.I.A. 1903 indicating it was manufactured at Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois in 1903.
b). Vergason. / Med. Corps. - The canteen belonged to a soldier in the Medical Corps. Vergason is possibly the soldiers name however, this is not confirmed.
History:
Interestingly, most M1878 canteens were constructed using surplus Civil War M1858 smooth-side tin bodies that were updated with newer canvas covers and specialized attachment hardware.
