Description

Nearly all of the reproduction wallets offered to Living Historians today are full or 3/4 billfold size examples. (the thicker, inferior leathers commonly used, generally incorrect for even the larger version, simply do not work with the more intricate work of this smaller style) At least half of the over 150 Civil War examples we have inventoried, many attributed and indentified to soldiers such as this one, have been this smaller type. (seen in nearly all references) Made to carry folded bills, stamps, and a few coins, but will also accomodate modern ID and credit cards measuring appr. 2 1/2″ x 4 1/4″ folded. (the original has a fine imprint of a CW era coin in one pocket which apparently stayed there for a long time) The original was finely crafted of very high quality thin calfskin with white kid inner facings and is stamped by the maker W.O. Hopkins, Sunapee, N.H. Our copy is made of the exact same materials with exceptional attention to detail, with our own maker’s mark, with embossing and finished using period methods by our own Mr. Marsh. Center pocket has bellowed sides and the strap has slip on the front and back for extra security. Corporal Eastman, was born in, and enlisted from, Sunapee in the 9th N.H. Infantry on Aug. 9, 1862. He was wounded on Dec. 12, 1862 at Fredericksburg, reportedly with this wallet in his posession. (the spot on the cover was claimed by family to actually be blood from his wound) On Nov. 11, 1863, Eastman was transferred to “171” Co., 2nd Battn, Veteran Reserve Corps and later discharged for disability on Oct. 1, 1864. He retired in Wisconsin. This is a museum quality reproduction of a fine Civil War wallet, which was carried by a fine Civil War soldier, striking in every detail, especially when laid beside the original. Got a few more in, get’em while they’re hot – the demand has been tremendous. The artisan quality crafstmanship easily worth twice our price.