This auction is for an ULTRA RARE and genuine USA Pattern 1868 Trowel Bayonet that fitted the Trapdoor Springfield Rifle

This is an early model the FIRST of several trowel bayonets utilizing Model 1861-63 socket with reinforced finger ring.

According to "The American Bayonet 1776-1964 " by A. N. Hardin Jnr. there were ONLY 200 of this experimental pattern ever made

This example is in extremely fine condition retaining ALL of the original finish on the blade and socket

The scabbard is marked “F. CHILLINGWORTH PAT. DEC 1 1868”.

There is an oval maker's cartouche stamp set below the maker's name, but those details are no longer discernible

PROVENANCE = This bayonet was previously part of the Ian Rasmussen Collection (Formed down here in New Zealand over many decades)

Ian passed away peacefully on 3 October 2018 (RIP)

Ian's ENORMOUS and WORLD RENOWNED bayonet collection was SO BIG that it was dispersed over several years.

It contained some incredibly rare bayonets

CONDITION = Excellent for a bayonet that exceeds 154 years of AGE.

The scabbard leather and stitching are 100% ORIGINAL

The scabbard leather remains rigid with 100+% stitching intact, and is a snug fit to its bayonet, there is some expected use-wear and age cracking to the leather

This would probably respond well to an application of "Leder Balsam" (Available from Chevalier or "Horse/Equine" Supply Store)

SOLD as-is un-messed about-with and uncleaned (Wining bidder may chose to improve appearance?)

Blade measures 223 mm (8 1/2") it has NO Bends NO chips NO rust NO pitting NO cracks No damage NO restoration

The machining-marks for the trowel scoop still clearly visible. Some MINOR age-staining, (Patina) that will clean away if desired?