Original Item: Only One Available. This is a size 7 3/8 U.S. Army Regulation Model 1895 enlisted forage cap. This was the U.S. Army’s first transition to a visor cap after leaving the traditional kepi design as worn from the 1850s-early 1890s. This cap was very short lived, being replaced by the more commonly encountered Model 1902 just seven years later.
Made of dark blue wool with enameled leather visor bound and a leather chinstrap. The cap retains the original russet brown leather sweatband, which is maker marked under the front with MARC STERNBERG. / Contract March 8, 1902.. Research indicates that this firm was one of the last to be awarded a contract for the forage cap, which was discontinued not long after this example was made.
Inside of the crown is lined with black Polished Cotton, which is in very good condition. The front insignia appears to have been repaired some time ago, but still looks to be fragile so handle with caution. The side buttons that hold the chinstrap in place are the correct post 1885 pattern. The condition is excellent for the age but there are some scattered moth nips present, but nothing that takes away from the beauty of the cap.
A lovely example that comes more than ready for further research and display.