Civil War Glasses

We have a large selection of civil war era glasses. Most fall into the category of straight temple glasses, sliding temple glasses, or sharpshooter glasses.

Straight Temple Glasses

Straight temple glasses were invented sometime in the 1830's. Lenses for antique spectacles were usually oval shaped, though sometimes they were square or octagon. They were meant to be used sitting and reading, and would easily fall off the face while walking. Those who wanted them to stay on would tie them with a string from behind. Straight temple eyeglasses were usually made from steel, nickel, or solid gold. Throughout the years many of the solid gold frames have been melted down for their scrap value. Straight temple glasses went out of style in the late 1800's when spring steel was invented, allowing the temples to be easily bent and ushering in the era of cable temples.

Civil War Sharpshooter Glasses

These frames are sometimes referred to as civil war sharpshooter glasses and generally consist of a yellow to orange tinted lens which is fogged on the outer edges and clear in the middle, purpotedly used as civil war glasses by sharpshooters to help them aim. This theory has been disproven by some, who believe these civil war glasses to be no more than a form of vintage sunglasses.

Civil war glasses are sought after by many today. Weather you are looking for civil war reenactment glasses or just like the look of civil war era glasses or reading alsses, we have a large selection you will surely enjoy.

26 Items

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26 Items

Set Descending Direction
per page