Item Description
Original item: One Only. This is an Exceptionally RARE Prussian Bayonet, made for the M-1860 Dreyse Needlefire Fusilier Rifle. The Zündnadelgewehr (ignition needle rifle) was the invention of Johann Nicolaus von Dreyse, a German gunsmith from the Prussian region. This design was the first breech loading firearm design to use bolt-action to open and close the chamber. The design was use during the middle portion of the 19th century, when the M1860 Dreyse Fusilier model was put into service. For more information please see Watts & White's fine work THE BAYONET BOOK, Page 110, Item 238.
This Füsilier-Seitengewehre (Fusilier bayonet) for the Füs.s M1860 is in very good condition, and features a "quill back" blade almost 20 inches long, with an overall length of 25 inches. This particular bayonet is marked with CROWN / W over 64, which is itself over a crown "S" on the blade. These same markings are found on the reverse hooked quillon. This indicates acceptance in 1864, during the reign of Prussian King Wilhelm I, who reigned 1861 - 1888. In 1871 he would also become the first Deutscher Kaiser (German Emperor) of the newly formed German Empire.
Due to cleaning, the regimental markings on the cross guard are unfortunately no longer visible, however we can still see F. R., which would stand for one of the Füsilier-Regiment units. This is the exact type of marking that should be on this bayonet.
The blade reverse ricasso bears a faint original makers mark:
C & J
This is one of the maker marks used by Clemen & Jung Waffenfabrik of Solingen, the legendary "City of Blades" in the mountains of Western Germany. This company was founded in 1860, and rapidly gained numerous domestic and foreign contracts for edged weapons. They are listed specifically as making M1860 Füsilier-Seitengewehre from 1863-1864 for the Kingdom of Prussia, marked with their early C & J Marking. For more information please see GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS by J. Anthony Carter, pages 132-134.
This is a truly great collector's opportunity to purchase a very good condition rare bayonet made by a known from the most famous edged weapon making region of Germany. Ready to add to your collection!
Specifications:
Blade Length: 20"
Blade Style: Single Edge Sword with "Quill Back"
Overall length: 25"
Crossguard: 4 1/2"
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE
