December 13-15, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/15/2022
Lot consists of (A) Scarce, early version of the Rice Model 1873 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. The bayonet is in standard configuration with wide trowel blade and blued socket. Complete with wood handle plug. The socket is marked “PAT.APR.16#72. Scabbard is marked “WATERVLIET / ARSENAL” on belt loop and “A.R.S.” on body. CONDITION: The blade remains bright with scattered light blemishes. Sharp tip. Excellent finish on socket. Wood handle is clean. Scabbard exhibits scattered marks from handling and age. Nice patina on brass components. Very nice example. (B) Model 1873 U.S. Wagner entrenching tool with scabbard. These were developed for use during the Indian Wars to give frontier troops a handy tool to dig in to defensive positions on short notice. Standard configuration with wide single edged blade, upturned spine, and rounded guard. Ribbed wood grip branded “US”. Complete with leather wrapped steel scabbard which is also branded “US” and features a brass top fitted with an iron hanger loop. CONDITION: Blade exhibits a light patina with scattered blemishes from handling and age. Sharp edge. Wood grip exhibits handling wear. Scabbard exhibits marks from handling and age. Brass exhibits a nice patina. A nice example.
Blade Length
(A) 10" (B) 8"
Overall Length
(A) 16" (B) 12 - 3/4"