Opinions on Union Kepi

[obal7]

Hi,
I recently ran across this Union Kepi at a Civil War collectors Show that the sell was unsure of it's authenticity. I was wondering if I could get some thoughts and opinions as to it's authenticity, original, era or repro and any other info that may be of help.
Thanks.

 

[major bill]

Thank you for posting this. I just do not have enough expertise to give an opinion.

 

[kel1985]

I'm in Major Bill's camp on this one, I don't have enough experience to opine, but with most ACW collectibles, if it looks too good to be true, that's usually because it is.

 

[7thWisconsin]

Were there ever any "M" batteries, especially in a heavy artillery regiment? I thought numbering ended with "K." The body of the hat looks great, and the interior consistent with a lot of wear. I am inclined to call this a reproduction, although the brass may well be original; it's correctly fastened to the crown.

 

[captaindrew]

The chinstrap and visor look too good to be original to me but I'm no relic expert either, I'm sure we'll know for sure before long

 

[WJC]

Nice looking hat- too nice. I'm skeptical but by no means an expert. The cloth looks too good and the strap in too good a shape.
However, if you like it and the price is right....

 

[UCVRelics]

Its really hard to give a definitive answer off of photos. I think your doing the right thing. Research Research Research.

 

[gary]

Post it at the Company of Military Historians. They are into the material culture of armies.

 

[Banjo Pete]

Definitely has SOME age to it. Even if it is a repro it looks like a well made, good quality item.

 

[7thWisconsin]

IF it's a reproduction, it's a high end, early 90s era reproduction, not an old 70s or 80s hat. The wool quality is really nice. They started making really good looking headgear about 25 years ago.

 

[Frederick14Va]

Reproduction.... This one would most likely date to the late 1970 early-80's era... I have several identical to this when I first got started in reenacting obtained during that same time frame.... These were the inexpensive sutler row faire that were quite common... and the exterior look was close enough so we thought then... The stitching and construction assembly methods used on many of these older reproductions like this one are not even close to what the originals were... The higher quality makers were very few, and hadn't taken a solid foot hold within the hobby just yet....

In the early war era it was not uncommon that respective regiments had more than the prescribed 10 companies... so finding evidence of Companies K, L, or M, were not that unusual... particularly with Heavy Artillery units...

 

[obal7]

Thanks for all of your thoughts... as you all agree.. I'm sure it is a reproduction for Re-enacting, movie prop or something.. and like you said, if it seems to good to be true... it probably is.
Thanks Much guys!

 

[mofederal]

I don't like the interior at all. The outside looks better. The chinstrap looks real good on the inside (protected/hidden part. The outside of it more worn. Leather doesn't usually age so well, even when protected, boxed. The stitching looks off in the lining. No sign of a sweat band, and it should have had one. The stitching should look good, because the people who made them knew how to sew, they did it for a living. Buying uniform books is very helpful for reference. Get to know what you are interested in buying. Talk to older collector, one's with displays of your interests, go to museums, bug people, ask questions. It can save you from expensive mistakes. Know what you want, and study it until you are sick of looking at it. buy the reference books. Spending money can save you frustration and money. Even online sources can help. Still beware I have seen excellent repros, which can still fool you. Be careful.

 

[mofederal]

Take a look at Midwest Civil War Relics website. He has many examples of originals. The weave of the wool, the construction of the interior, the overall high quality of the work, faded color, the weave and color of the wool, quality of leather, the way devices are attached. All of these are telling things. you can see from these photos why the listed kepi is a fake. Happy reading.

 

[Package4]

No, no, no and did I say no? Not even close. Bad liner, no buckram stiffener and it does not have the reeds in either the disk or at the bottom of the cap where it joins to the brim. 20-30 y/o re-enactor's piece. Also bad chin strap......