This rare early pattern 1856 British sword bayonet was made for the Model 1853, .577 calibre Enfield rifled short-musket. Originally only issued to British line infantry sergeants, these rifles and bayonets were also sold to both the Union and Confederate armies during the American Civil War. This bayonet is a typical export example, as it does not bear British military issue or War Department ownership stamps.
The 578mm yataghan blade has a flat spine and broad single fuller on both sides. The recurved blade is double-edged for the last 120mm. The ricasso bears the Ritter, the knights’ helmet logo of the Kirschbaum factory in Solingen, Germany. The blade was service sharpened and is in very good condition with some tiny edge nicks and faint use-related scratches.
The iconic steel crosspiece with forward pointing cockscomb and button finials is bright and free of rust. The beaked pommel bears the number 1 beside an over-stamped 8 and the end of the pommel is stamped with the numeral 3.
The press-stud and external spring locking mechanism work perfectly. The external spring is riveted in place, indicating that this bayonet is an early production model, dating to around 1856-1857. In later production P1856/58 bayonets, the rivet is replaced with a screw. The leather grip scales are in very good condition and are stamped with a British based Solingen inspector’s mark, a crowned S over the inspector’s number.
The bayonet is complete with its original leather scabbard with steel mounts. The steel locket and chape are bright and without rust or damage. The locket and chape are riveted to the leather. Later examples are stapled. The leather is in very good condition with some use related wear. The stitching is intact and tight.
This is a very good example of a rarely found early production 1856 bayonet with riveted external spring.
