Scarce variant of the iconic French model 1866 sword bayonet for the Chassepot rifled musket. The ball quillon bears a Maltese cross. The origin of these bayonets is the subject of some conjecture. Some researchers believe that these bayonets were produced in the Basque country of Spain in 1870, during the Franco-Prussian War because the French were unable to supply bayonets to accompany a shipment of Chassepot muskets they sold to the Basques.
The 575mm yataghan blade has a wide, flat spine and broad single fuller. The spine is unmarked. The blade is in excellent condition.
The cross-piece is stamped with “5140” and the ball quillon bears a Maltese cross.
The front of the cross-piece bears a manufacturing stamp.
The brass hilt in in good condition with a great patina. The inside of the mortice slot is unmarked. French made M1866 bayonets are marked with serial numbers and additional stamps within the mortice slot. The press stud and external spring mechanism work perfectly.
The rolled steel scabbard is in good condition without dents or damage. The scabbard is stamped at the throat with the serial number Z 13775. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is an interesting and rare variant of the M1866 Chassepot musket bayonet. The bayonet is not French made and has rarely encountered markings.
