In 1861 Colt reached an agreement with the government to purchase Model 1841 rifles at $10.00 each, alter them to .58 caliber, fit them with sword bayonets, and then sell them back to the government for $18.50 each. From February through June 1862 Colt sold 10,400 of these altered guns, plus a very few in November 1861, back to the U.S. government.

The bayonets were fitted to the rifle by use of a simple split-ring adapter with lug mounted on the barrel. The bayonets were ordered from Collins and Company, but were not marked with the firm name. As is correct, this specimen has just a date on the blade, 1862, and no mating number on flat of the grip. No sub-inspector stampings are evident.

The brass hilt has a mellow, aged patina with just light wear. The locking spring and button are intact and functional. The blade is a gray tone with dark brown spotted oxidation covering much of the blade. The edge is fine with a good point – no damage noted.

The accompanying scabbard is in an honest, used condition. Leather remains strong with moderate cracking and outer layer loss – but no creases. The stitched seam remains unbroken and the brass throat and tip are securely in place with a mellow patina.

A good example of this style of bayonet for the Colt altered Mississippi that saw service in both the eastern and western theatres of the Civil War. Some 5,000 were shipped to the St. Louis Arsenal in May 1862 alone.

A great and uncommon piece for the Civil War weaponry collector.   [CM] [ph:L]

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