Developed following a series of military trials in 1879, the 45-70-500 was an upgrade to the then-standard Army issue 45-70-405 cartridge, loading a heavier bullet for greater accuracy and penetration when used in the volley fire role. In this format, the 45-70 outlived the Trapdoor Rifle it was designed for, and remains a viable cartridge against American and African big game to this day. Each box is tan cardboard with a tan and red label, marked with the U.M.C. trademark in the upper corners flanking the caliber markings and Bridgeport address on the top, with "U.S. Government Standard." over "20/Cartridges.", a picture of the cartridge, and "45 Calibre/SMOKELESS POWDER/500 Grs. Bullet." on the front. Included with the boxes is a hardwood shipping box, labeled as fourth class mail for shipment from Bolin's Gun Shop of South Amboy, New Jersey to a Frank S Hallett Junior at the Bank Building at Castle Rock, Washington. Castle Rock is a small community to the west of Mount St. Helens in Washington Sate. No information has turned up on Bolin's Gun Shop.

Very good overall. All five boxes remain sealed, with one side of the lid detached from one of the boxes (included), and another showing some separation at the edges of the lid. All of the markings are crisp and clear. The shipping case is very good, with some separation of the wood, mild wear on the shipping labels, and a section absent from the lid.