SCARCE MODEL 1855 SWORD BAYONET FOR THE HARPER’S FERRY RIFLE

$175.00 SOLD

Quantity Available: None

Item Code: 1037-412

A rough but real example of the Harpers Ferry sword bayonet for the 1855 rifle. The two-band 1855 rifle made at Harpers Ferry mounted a version of the sword bayonet that was being retrofitted at the time to the older Model 1841 “Mississippi” rifles. The brass hilt was retained, but the blade had less of the “yataghan” curve, though a noticeable uptick at the very point. This example is non-dug and full length. The blade has a good edge and point, but is deep brown and pitted overall. The brass hilt has minor dings and age darkening, but is not bent or distorted. The lower portion of the locking spring is still held in its mortise by its screw, but the upper portion, along with the release button, is missing. As is correct for this pattern of bayonet, there are no maker’s markings, since all of them were made at the Harpers Ferry Armory. There are small stamped letters “CF” on the grip flat near the muzzle ring, likely an inspector, if not at the armory, at a state facility that received it. There are small engraved numbers on the crossguard , "39". These would be mating numbers for the bayonet and rifle since some hand-fitting was necessary between the bayonet mortise and the mounting lug on the side of the rifle barrel.

Long regarded as the best-looking of the US military muzzle loaders, the 1855 rifle was used throughout the Civil War by both sides, but is a scarce rifle as is its bayonet.  [sr]

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EARLY WAR U.S. CAVALRY OFFICER’S SABER, 1840 STYLE, BY SMITH, CRANE AND COMPANY, NEW YORK, 1858 TO 1862

Smith, Crane and Company pieces are scarce. They were only in business from 1858 through 1862, retailing military goods in New York City. Their swords were imported, of German make and likely by Schnitzler and Kirschbaum, though not maker marked.… (870-263). Learn More »

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