An incredible Civil War or Indian War–era hardtack cracker, measuring 2.75 x 2.75 x .25, with ink notations reading “A. Michenor, Company…6th Regm, Pa. Vols.” The hardtack has a four-by-four matrix of holes. In very good condition, with flaking to the top affect some portions of the notations and a diagonal crack through the center. Prepared with flour and water, hardtack were commonly given to soldiers for food since they lasted a long time and were inexpensive; they were also very difficult to break or bite, thus the name. The exact date and nature of this piece are unknown but most likely Civil War or Indian War period, for which surplus hardtack from the Civil War was used. A decidedly unique piece.
