Shell Jacket

     Above is one of the most recognized coats of the Federal Army, The M-1858 US Enlisted Shell Coat.  This waist length jacket was worn by many Federal Artillery and Cavalry units.  The picture above is of a Quartermaster Sergeant in full dress for the Light Artillery.   The M-1858 jacket has 12 small brass US Eagle buttons on the front and four on the collar.  The jacket also has two bolsters in back to support a belt. On his head is a M-1861 Dress Shako and he is carrying a M-1840 Light Artillery Saber.