July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
Very nice example of a rare Pattern 1861 Dahlgren bowie bayonet, often referred to as the Plymouth Naval Rifle Bowie Knife Bayonet. Designed in 1856 by US Navy Admiral John A. B. Dahlgren for use aboard his ship, the USS Plymouth, this pattern of knife bayonet replaced the saber-style bayonet. These bayonets were produced for the US Navy by Ames Mfg. Co. of Chicopee, Massachusetts in September 1861. This example is dated 1864 and is appropriately marked on the ricasso. This edged weapon features an unfullered, bowie style, spear point blade which measures approximately 11 - 7/8" in length. The blade is marked "USN / DR (Anchor) / 1864" and " PGG on the obverse ricasso with proper Ames marking on the reverse ricasso. The hilt is constructed of a heavy brass, 1-piece pommel, guard, and back strap with a 1-piece walnut finger grooved grip fitted between the pommel back strap and the guard. The bayonet is complete with its original leather scabbard with brass mounts. CONDITION: The blade remains bright with evidence of an older, light polishing. The brass hilt exhibits a pleasing mustard patina. Wood grip remains firmly in place and exhibits handling wear. The scabbard exhibits various scuffs and scratches but remains firm with a tight seam. One area of cracking towards the tip. The throat retains its original brass belt stud and 4 retaining rivets, 2 on each side. The brass tip is loose and only retains 1 of the rivets. Brass mounts exhibit a patina that matches the hilt. Overall very good. Fine example of a rare Civil War edged weapon. JLD