This 1887 Mk III pattern bayonet was made in 1888 by the Wilkinson Sword Company.
The 467mm un-fullered, single-edged blade has a flat spine and terminates in a spear point with a 200mm upper false edge. The forte of the blade bears a crowned VR cypher and the manufacture year of 1888, below which is stamped the maker’s details, Wilkinson Sword Company. London. The obverse bears the War Department WD and arrow and a Wilkinson inspection stamp. The spine is stamped with two Wilkinson inspection stamps.
The blade is in very good condition and is un-sharpened. There are some scuffs from scabbard wear.
The steel cross guard with stepped muzzle ring is bright and rust free as is the pommel. The press button catch is in good working order. The knurled leather grip scales are in very good condition and secured by two rivets. The grip scales bear Wilkinson inspection stamps. The pommel is stamped with the issue number 8. A matching number 8 is stamped on the scabbard throat.
The original black leather and steel mounted scabbard is in good condition. The leather is strong and the stitching is intact and tight. The steel locket and chape have a pale patina with darker speckles. The locket and chape bear War Department ownership stamps and the throat bears the number 8. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a very good example of a scarce Mk III pattern 1887 Martini-Henry bayonet.
