There is little known of canteens of this shape. What can be said with certainty is that the striations found in War Between the States era canteens are clearly visible, leaving no doubt as to its vintage. There are four oval canteens pictures in Civil War Canteens, by Sylvia and O’Donnell on pages 96 and 97. Two are Confederate, one was found in an 1863 Federal Camp. This last is of course not Federal issue.

This canteen is in tight condition with convex faces and three sling loops. What makes this canteen particularly rare is its oval/pear shape. The canteen measures 6.25 inches by 4.25 inches.

The canteen retains its cork stopper and it is in superb condition.