Original 19th Century French M1866 Chassepot and M1874 Gras Bayonet Set with Early Dates Original Items

Original Items: Only Ones Available. Lot of two Franco-Prussian War Period French Bayonets; A M-1866 Chassepot Yataghan-Style Saber Bayonet dated 1870, and a M-1874 Gras Bayonet Dated 1875 (1st year of production!).
 
The M-1866 Chassepot Bayonet:
This is a very nice example of the long “yataghan” saber bladed bayonet for the French Fusil Modèle 1874 “Gras” Rifle, Fusil modèle 1866 “Chassepot” Needle Fire rifle. These were very often cut down or altered later on in their service life, but this example still has the original full length 22 3/4 inch long blade, with an overall length of 25 1/2 inches.
 
The spine of the bayonet is marked St. Étienne 1870, indicating original manufacture at the arsenal in St. Étienne, during February 1870. It is in very good condition, with a mostly bright blade, with some areas of light staining. The brass handle has a lovely aged mustard patina.
 
The Cross guard of the bayonet  has a serial number not matching the scabbard. The scabbard itself is in good condition.
 
A very nice example, ready to add to your French edged weapon collection or fit to a rifle!
 
The M1874 Gras Bayonet:
This is a very nice early example (1st year production!) of the long bladed bayonet for the French Fusil Modèle 1874 “Gras” Rifle, first developed as a cartridge conversion of their Chassepot Fusil modèle 1866 Needle Fire Rifle. The attachment dimensions were the same as the Chassepot, so the original “Yataghan” saber bayonets also fit, but the more modern straight design with the reinforced spine had superior penetrating power against any type of armor.
 
The T-shaped spine of the bayonet is maker marked and dated 1875, indicating original manufacture at the arsenal in St. Étienne.
 
It is in very good condition, with a most excellent blade. There is some slight oxidation and patina to the exterior here and there. The wood of the handle is nicely worn, and the brass pommel has a yellow green patina.