The 1855 series of arms distinguished between “rifles of musket length” for line infantry and “rifles” for light infantry and Harpers Ferry was designated as the sole manufacturing point for these “two-band” rifles. To compensate for the shorter length of the rifles in close combat, longer bayonets were designed that mounted brass hilts and exotic “yataghan” style curved blades. These were to be carried on the 1855 pattern riflemen’s belts that had a slotted frog that would take the rectangular staple on the scabbard throat and secure it with a buckled latch tab.

The scabbard on this example is complete, full-length and without bends or breaks, showing just minor crazing overall to the finish. The brass mounts have been lightly cleaned. The hilt of the bayonet matches in tone. The retaining spring and button are in place. There are no serious dings or divots to the brass hilt. The blade is semi-bright with light scattered mottling. The point and edge, however, are good, with no nicks or chips. Since these bayonets were made only at the Harpers Ferry Armory, they bear no maker’s marks. Some that were destined for direct issue to the regular army bear a US stamp at the ricasso. In this case there is a PB/B stamped vertically on the obverse ricasso indicating it was likely accepted by a state under the distribution of arms under the 1808 militia act.

This is a scarce bayonet to find with its proper scabbard and one that would look well displayed with an 1855 rifle or in an 1855 pattern belt rig.  [ad]

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