*French, Model 1874 Gras Sword Bayonet with Scabbard, St. Étienne Arsenal, February 1878*
An original French Model 1874 Gras sword bayonet retaining its associated steel scabbard, produced at the Manufacture d’Armes de St. Étienne and dated February 1878 to the spine. The bayonet is of classic straight T-backed form, developed for use with the 11 mm Fusil Modèle 1874 “Gras” rifle following the French Army’s transition from the earlier Chassepot needle-fire system to metallic centerfire ammunition.
The blade retains its original cursive spine inscription reading “Mre d’Armes de St Étienne Févr 1878”, confirming manufacture at the St. Étienne state arsenal during the early production period of the Gras system. The ricasso bears French inspection and acceptance marks including an “M” within a circle and a circled “S”. The crossguard is stamped with serial number “53489” (unclear), while the accompanying steel scabbard throat is numbered “N 25523”, indicating a non-matching but period-correct pairing.
The bayonet features a straight T-backed blade with steel hooked quillon crossguard, muzzle ring, and brass pommel with working locking stud. Wooden grip scales remain intact and secured by rivets. The scabbard retains its original tapered steel body with ball finial.
Approx. Measurements – Overall length: approx. 64.5 cm. Blade length: approx. 52 cm.
History Note:
The Model 1874 Gras bayonet was derived directly from the earlier Model 1866 Chassepot bayonet following Colonel Basile Gras’ redesign of the French service rifle to accept the powerful 11×59 mm metallic cartridge. While visually related to the earlier Chassepot pattern, the M1874 adopted a straight T-backed blade profile in place of the earlier curved yataghan form. Large numbers were manufactured at the principal French state arsenals of St. Étienne, Châtellerault, and Tulle during the late 19th century, seeing service not only in French colonial campaigns but also remaining in reserve stocks well into the First World War.
*Condition*
The bayonet displays honest age and service wear throughout. The blade retains a clear arsenal inscription with scattered grey oxidation, staining, and areas of light pitting consistent with long-term storage. The steel hilt and hooked quillon show a dark aged patina with surface corrosion throughout. Wooden grip scales remain solid with handling wear present. The locking stud appears operational. The scabbard retains a heavily oxidised surface with age-related pitting and wear but remains structurally sound. Numbers are visible as described. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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