Here are two closely related, but not quite identical 58 caliber arsenal-type molds. The overall "look" of the two molds is very similar, with only the turned wooden handles and ends of the hinge pin having slightly different profiles. Despite those small differences, the molds were likely made by the same manufacturer. The mold in the top image is in nearly new condition and likely unissued. The handles of it are coated with a yellow-copper paint or alloy-like material. In contrast, the mold in the lower image, while also in excellent condition, has a nice patina and is neatly stamped "US" with the single digit "1" stamped on both the tool and the hollow-base plugs. It is likely that the "1"'s represent assembly numbers either stamped at the time of manufacture, or perhaps more likely, at the time of issue to prevent mix-ups in the field. The fact that some molds do not have the numbers suggests the numbers may have been stamped later. Several other virtually identical molds are known. The 58 caliber balls could have been used for any of several rifles and muskets in use at the time of the Civil War; among those the 1855 and 1861 muskets. These are beautiful, well made, heavy molds, the maker of which, remains obscure.
