This French model 1866 yataghan bayonet for the Chassepot pin-fire musket was made at the Mutzig armoury in 1869. Mutzig made M1866 bayonets are uncommon.
The 566mm yataghan blade is in very good condition. The spine is engraved with the arsenal name and date of manufacture; Mutzig , July 1869. The ricasso bears two armoury inspection stamps.
The iron cross-piece is stamped with the serial number of the Chassepot rifled musket that the bayonet was issued with. The cross-piece is also stamped with M21. The hooked quillon bears four additional inspection poincon. The front of the cross-piece bears additional stamps consisting of numerals and letters. The crosspiece is in great condition.
The brass hilt is in excellent condition and the press stud and external spring mechanism work perfectly.
The bayonet is complete with its black painted steel scabbard. The scabbard is in very good condition. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a great example of the iconic French Chassepot bayonet from a scarce maker.
