Z9523 .58 Rifled Musket Cartridge by Johnston & Dow
Description: Very nice example of a non-excavated .577/.58 Johnston & Dow waterproof and combustible paper cartridge. These cartridges are often misidentified as "skin” cartridges, but they represent a distinct design patented by Algernon K. Johnston and Lorenzo Dow on October 1, 1861 (U.S. Patent No. 38,393). Their innovation featured a paper envelope that was both highly combustible and moisture resistant. The paper case was nitrated and then coated with collodion to make it waterproof, eliminating the need to tear the cartridge open before loading.
Most Johnston & Dow rifle cartridges were loaded with an elongated bullet over 60 grains of black powder. With a diameter of approximately .574 inches, they could be used in both Springfield and Enfield rifled muskets. Numerous examples have been recovered from Civil War sites, testifying to the durability of their waterproof construction.
This particular specimen remains stable and well-preserved, retaining its original form and overall integrity. The paper and outer collodion coating show a few minor shrinkage cracks, typical for this cartridge type. An excellent, non-excavated example of the Johnston & Dow .577/.58 paper musket cartridge—a key design from the American Civil War period.
Measures: OAL 1.978” D .577”
Reference: "Round Ball to Rimfire” Thomas Vol. 1, Pg. 175, No. 245
Price: $165.00 UPS Shipping Required
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Ian Workman
American Civil War Relics &
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