Offered is a scarce, early-to-mid 19th-century (c. 1830s–1860s) sheet iron  bullseye candle lantern. Unlike later late-19th-century oil-burning watchman or police lanterns, this early example retains its original internal sheet-tin candle socket, designed with a vertical expansion seam to secure a tallow or beeswax candle.

The lantern features a glass bullseye-like lens held within a decorative pie-crust crimped tin bezel. The top chimney structure consists of a double-tiered, corrugated heat-deflector cap to manage smoke escape while protecting the flame from drafts. The back features a heavy-duty folding strip handle mechanism that folds flat against the body for easy storage or belt-wearing.

The surface exhibits wonderful historical integrity, retaining substantial remnants of its original historic green paint over an undisturbed, aged iron patina.

Item Specifics:

• Material: Tinned Sheet Iron / Sheet Metal & Glass Lens

• Height: Approx. 7"

• Width: Approx. 5.5" (front of lens casing to rear handle edge)

• Lens Diameter: Approx. 3"

• Weight: 11.5 oz (326 grams)

• Provenance/Era: American or English, circa 1830–1860

• Features: Internal split candle tube socket, double crimped heat shield, hinged door latch, folding belt/hand handle.

Condition & Authenticity Assessment

Condition: Extremely good, untouched antique condition given its age and function. Structural tinwork is solid and intact with minimal metal fatigue or solder separation. The hinged front casing swings freely and latches securely into the side catch. Flaking and wear to the historic green paint reveal an authentic oxidized dark iron patina underneath. Uncleaned and completely unrestored.

Authenticity Assessment: This lantern demonstrates unquestionable period authenticity through multiple key physical markers:

1. Hand-Rolled Seams & Soldering

2. Scalloped Lens Collar

3. Authentic Patina

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Item Description and Condition Disclaimer

We take great care in researching, identifying, and describing each antique item to the best of our ability, drawing on available resources and hands-on examination. However, as dedicated enthusiasts rather than professional appraisers or certified experts, we cannot offer guarantees on authenticity, age, origin, or precise valuation. We strongly recommend that buyers perform their own due diligence, including consulting reference materials or experts, and thoroughly examine the accompanying photographs. These images are an essential component of our listing and depict the item's actual condition, including any visible flaws, wear, or imperfections consistent with its antique nature. It is the buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and form their own assessment on condition, description and authenticity before purchasing. All items have signs of wear commensurate with age and usage. The lack of statement regarding condition does not imply that the item is in perfect condition or free from any and all defects. If you have any questions regarding the condition of the items, please ask and we will be more than happy to answer and/or provide additional photos as requested.

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