Model 1858 Dress Hat Infantry version. This is a Civil War Dress Hat which is commonly known as a Hardee Hat.  It is fully dressed and in near mint condition. It is a classic example of the hat issued according to regulations adopted by the U.S. Army in 1858 and eventually made famous by the Iron Brigade. This unworn hat is in minty condition with a perfect sweatband and label in the crown. Label shows U.S.Army over Eagle with Extra Manufacture over 7 and No.3.

There is some aging of the felt but no separations or tears and stitching around the brim is 75% intact. The brim is turned up on the left side per army regulations for foot troops with original "Jeff Davis" eagle fastener. Front bears an Infantry device as well as a blue infantry hat cord and single plume ostrich feather fastened by ferrule style stitching below the hat cord. Both brass devices are looped and held in place by leather tongs.

The Hardee Hat was adopted for all branches of service in 1858 by then Secretary of War, Jefferson Davis. They saw service early during the Civil War, but did not bear up to the rigors of warfare and were soon replaced by the more popular kepis and slouch hats.