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American Civil War Clothing & Uniforms

The American Civil produced many variations of uniforms on both sides. Both the Union and Confederacy had an army, a navy, and marine corps. Each branch of either military wore different uniforms. These uniforms were even more complicated in the beginning of the war when state militias reported for duty because they did not have standard uniforms.

Commonly, the Confederate forces wore gray while the Union federalists wore blue uniforms. In addition to clothing, there are a variety of accessories available for collectors including boots, belts, and hats. There are also a variety of different medals that varied between the Union and Confederacy, as well as state militia decorations that varied greatly between states.


Quick Facts

  • While gray is commonly associated with the Confederates, and blue with the Union, during the beginning of the war the issue was confused because some Union militias wore gray and vice versa
  • Some militia uniforms were quite eccentric and features wide, baggy pants, and a fez or turban
  • Specialized units like cavalry and artillery had uniform distinctions, including stripes on the pants and trim on the tunic

Recommended Items at Auction

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C.S.A. South Carolina Belt and Buckle
Jun 21, 9:30 AM EDT
C.S.A. South Carolina Belt and Buckle
by Old Barn Auction
Est: $40- $1,000
$1,20025 Bids
(2) Belt Buckles, USMC M1878 Enlisted Mans
Jun 21, 9:30 AM EDT
(2) Belt Buckles, USMC M1878 Enlisted Mans
by Old Barn Auction
Est: $40- $1,000
$907 Bids
(2) Belt Buckles, “OVI” Ohio Voluntary Infantry
Jun 21, 9:30 AM EDT
(2) Belt Buckles, “OVI” Ohio Voluntary Infantry
by Old Barn Auction
Est: $40- $1,000
$804 Bids
(2) Belt Buckles, P.F.Z.R. P.S.M. Pa Fire Zouave
Jun 21, 9:30 AM EDT
(2) Belt Buckles, P.F.Z.R. P.S.M. Pa Fire Zouave
by Old Barn Auction
Est: $40- $1,000
$202 Bids
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Ca. 1862 Confederate Civil War Cadet Uniform
Jun 21, 9:00 AM MDT
Ca. 1862 Confederate Civil War Cadet Uniform
by North American Auction Company
Est: $2,000- $4,000
$6500 Bids
Spanish Civil War period drum skirt
Jun 14, 9:30 AM EDT
Spanish Civil War period drum skirt
by Mohawk Arms Inc.
Est: $125- $250
$1200 Bids
Civil War: (2) Union Puppy Paw Belt Plates
Jun 28, 12:00 PM EDT
Civil War: (2) Union Puppy Paw Belt Plates
by Blackwell Auctions LLC
Est: $100- $200
$500 Bids

Sellers Who Sell American Civil War Clothing & Uniforms


North American Auction Company

North American Auction Company

Blackwell Auctions LLC

Blackwell Auctions LLC