M-1858 smooth side and bulls eye canteens were not painted when manufactured or issued.

There may have been a few CS tin drum canteens painted when manufactured but I have seen no evidence to indicate this was normal. Have seen a couple with paint on them but it may have been applied after the war.

Tin plating protected the canteen from rust. Paint was unnecessary. In addition, M-1858 canteens were issued with a cloth cover.

Post war, some veterans painted their canteens which they took home with scenes from the war.