Item #68458 : Original period manufacture. Basically a standard type 1864 pattern .58 caliber cartridge box with a riveted leather loop securing a brass hook on the top curve of the flap cover. Overall the box is very sound, retaining both of its tin ammunition compartments inside. Most of the surface leather finish remains intact, with minor flaking from age. Maker marked on the interior flap, Metzger, Philadelphia, in addition to a US Ordnance Inspector stamp. All of the original buckles and straps are present and intact.  At the time of our purchase I had no idea who or when the loop and hook was installed, or what its purpose was, I will say that they match the age and patina of the pouch perfectly. While reading the July 2025 issue of the Military Collector & Historian magazine, Volume 77, published by The Company of Military Historians, an excellent article by Frederick C. Gaede entitled "Notes on Fleece-Lined Boxes and Pouches for Metallic Cartridges, 1865-1870", appeared. In his well written and researched article, Mr. Gaede mentions an application by Mr. Oliver E. Woods to provide a system of modifying existing Infantry equipments to better distribute the combined weight of same upon the soldier's body. In February 1866 the Adjutant General's office informed the QMG that "at the request of Lt.General Grant, the Secretary of War directs that 5,000 knapsacks, haversacks and canteens be prepared according to the plan proposed by Mr. Oliver E. Woods, the accoutrements now in use being adapted for this purpose". I would like to close this with a note of thanks to the Company of Military Historians and Mr.Gaede. The publication of the society and the contributions by the membership are a continuing asset to those who study the militaria of the Western hemisphere. I sincerely   recommend a membership in this venerable organization, you will not be disappointed.