December 15, 2020 Edged Weapons, Armor & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2020
Scarce, early version of the Rice trowel bayonet in very good condition with excellent narrow belt loop first-pattern scabbard. Developed to keep a weapon for close combat and provide the means to entrench quickly in the field in the face of new, effective rapid fire and long range arms. Usually termed experimental, but widely issued to infantry in the field in the 1870s during the Indian Wars. An interesting piece showing changes in battlefield thinking. CONDITION: Bayonet very good. Thin blue on socket. Missing wood plug insert handle. Blade with good edges, originally bright finished, now smooth metal, muted silver. Scabbard, excellent. Mounts in place. Solid, with very good finish and color. SR
Item Dimensions: 16 - 1/2" x 5"