They aren't junk, unless they are in bad condition.FortyFive said:I have a bayonet with French writing on it and a date of 1877, doing a goggle I came up with one that looks just like mine. The link is listed below along with the mfg arsenal. Its the second image down from the top. Does anyone deal with this stuff??? Is it worth anything or considered junk??
http://old-smithy.info/bayonets/1866_chassepot.htm
Impériale de Chatellerault Arsenal
The switchover to the Gras bayonet and rifle started in 1874. So, an 1877 Chassepot would be among the last produced. With the quillon and slight curve, it was an attractive short sword with a hefty blade. The Gras was absolutely straight with a triangular shape.FortyFive said:"If it is a Chassepot, and in good condition, with its scabbard, I have seen prices from $175 up to over $350."
Hi Tom, I believe its a Chassepot with scabbard. I have never cleaned them up so they are rusted etc. The blade would clean up really good I am sure, there are markings on Chassepot in addition to which armory made it. Thanks for the input appreciate it.
That's a Chassepot. Along with the armory where it was made, the engraving should include the exact date it was made. I don't know what the French were using, but here in the US, soldiers often used stove blacking to paint their scabbards and give it a flat black patina. The scabbard looks to be in rough shape - may not be enough material left for restoration. The blade and the grip look pretty good, all things considered. The quillon looks pretty rough. Isn't it cool to know that, over a century ago, that short sword was carried at someone's side, ready to be attached to their rifle?FortyFive said:OK Bud and Tom I at last got the picture up...