Revolutionary War carved-horn Powder Measure

Being offered is a unique18th century Revolutionary War carved horn powder measure. It measures 4” long x 3/4” wide. Obviously, the carver was very talented and somewhat of an artist. I has a beautiful design to it, along with the hole for a string attachment.

An 18th-century powder measure was a device, often made of bone, brass, horn, or antler. They were used to dispense a specific volume of black powder for loading muzzleloading firearms. These measures were essential for ensuring consistent and safe powder charges, preventing both undercharging and dangerous overcharging.

Powder Measures were important to a soldier along with his powder horn. In “Collector’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the American Revolution” by Neumann & Kravic there are examples of these measures (see pictures). They could be simple fixed-volume designs, such as cut-off horn tubes, or adjustable types with sliding components to set different powder amounts. These measures have always been rare and difficult to come by – especially one like this.

Revolutionary War artifacts have always been hard to find. With the upcoming of the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding next year, there will be a revitalized interest. Just about all Revolutionary War relics and artifacts will be in demand, which will only add to their scarcity and price.