This is a British Pattern 1856 Saber bayonet made for the two band Enfield musket. The bayonet measures 28 1/4" overall, with a blade length of 22 3/4". Each side of the blade has a 15 1/2" fuller. The blade has a dull steel gray patina with patches of old surface oxidation scattered about. The only stamp on the bayonet is on the tang of the blade just behind the cross guard, the number 54. The cross guard measures 4 3/16" and has quillions at the top and bottom of the guard. The guard, bird's head pommel, the pins retaining the grips all have a slightly darker patina than the blade. This indicates the blade has been in the scabbard for quite a long period of time. The black checkered grips are in good condition but do show moderate wear from handling. The bayonet release and locking spring unfortunately are missing. The scabbard is in very good condition. The iron throat and tip are still present and securely attached to the leather body of the scabbard. For whatever reason someone has slipped a section of a leather sword scabbard over the original leather. That can be removed by the new owner if desired. The leather bayonet scabbard that is visible shows honest wear from service, but has no crazing or loss. The stitching remains strong and unbroken. This is a good example of a Pattern 1856 Saber bayonet.

Item # AA3321