Rarely encountered Original USN .69 cal. Musket Box !

I purchased this box nearly 7 years ago with the intent of making a copy of it. A friend also contributed photos of another original box located back East. So far I have made 4 of these copies, (please see the last 3 photos). I have measured and photographed every detail, and am certain the patterns and assembly methods are dialed-in perfectly now.

I do not consider myself a collector (even though I love the stuff) and sell the original item when this process is completed.

I remember paying close to $400 for this artifact. The other box I mentioned (back East) sold for $1200 , and it was missing the belt loop and tins!  

As you can see the box is in relic condition, but is all there to some degree or another. I'll let the pictures explain that. If you have questions please feel free to ask. I gently cleaned and applied a museum preservative when it first arrived.

It will be carefully wrapped in acid free tissue from Museum Service Supply, and boxed and insured like I'm shipping the "Crown Jewels".