Steel Collars -- a curious advertisement

[Pvt Schnapps]

This weekend, whilst perusing the classifieds in the New York Times, I came across the following, dated July 4, 1863:

"STEEL COLLARS
ENAMELED WHITE

Having the appearance and comfort of linen, have been worn in England for the last two years in preference to any other collar, as they are readily cleaned in one minute.

To military men or travelers they are invaluable.
Price $1 each; sent by post on receipt of $1.12.
Wholesale and retail.

S.W.H. WARD
No. 397 Broadway, New-York

Agents wanted. New-York Mills Shirts ready-made and to measure."

Has anyone heard of anyone actually wearing a steel collar? How prevalent were they?

I would be grateful for any additional information on same.

YOS
Schnapps
Rusty-Neck Mess

[fahtz]

Re: Steel Collars -- a curious advertisement

I have heard of steel collars for neck ties. The ones Nick ************ makes are awesome. But the steel collar would make sense as well. Starched and paper collars were everywhere, but the painted steel would be very easy to keep and they are not that uncomfortable. If they are like the neck ties they are only 1.5-2 inches thick and hold their shape very very well.