*British, Pattern 1887 Mk I Martini-Henry Sword Bayonet & Scabbard, Enfield, Issued 1887, Re-Issued 1898*
An original British Pattern 1887 Mk I sword bayonet for the Martini-Henry rifle, manufactured at the Royal Small Arms Factory (RSAF), Enfield, and dated 1887 and reissued in 1898, complete with its correct period leather scabbard. It was almost certainly in service during the Boer War period (1899–1902).
The bayonet features a single-edged spear-point blade with a flat spine, short single fuller to both faces, and a double-edged point. It is fitted with a stepped steel crossguard incorporating a muzzle ring, and retains its original black chequered leather grips, secured by four rivets on one side and three on the other, with the external spring screw present.
Blade length measures 46.6 cm, with an overall length of 60.5 cm. The bayonet displays an extensive and well-struck series of British ordnance, inspection, and re-issue markings, clearly documenting an extended period of service.
The accompanying black leather scabbard retains its steel locket and chape, showing period wear consistent with age and use.
Markings
Ricasso (one face):
- Crown over VR – Queen Victoria royal cypher
- /87 – year of manufacture and initial acceptance (1887)
- .98 – re-inspection / re-issue date (1898)
- Small crown over B over 54 – British ordnance inspection mark (inspector letter and number)
Obverse (bend-test side):
- X – blade passed the official bend test
- Broad Arrow over WD – War Department ownership mark
- Crown over E over 77 – Enfield inspection mark
Spine:
- Crown over E(?) over 60 – inspection mark
- Crown over E(?) over 98 – inspection associated with the 1898 re-issue
- Broad Arrow
Tang / grip strap (internal inspection marks):
Multiple stacked British ordnance inspection stamps including:
- Crown over B
- Crown over BR over 80 / 90 (partially struck)
- Crown over E over ?5
- Q inspection mark
These are consistent with routine British ordnance inspection, assembly, and later re-inspection.
Pommel:
- NEP 8206 (final character slightly indistinct), interpreted as a non-regimental British rack or institutional control number,, some speculation as to whether this could be Nepalese issue.
Historical Note:
The Pattern 1887 Mk I was the final sword bayonet officially adopted for the Martini-Henry rifle in 1887, reflecting late-Victorian infantry doctrine that still valued reach and cutting capability in bayonet combat. Although the Martini-Henry was being superseded by the Lee-Metford and Lee-Enfield systems during the 1890s, many Pattern 1887 bayonets remained in service.
This example clearly demonstrates that continued service life, having been manufactured in 1887 and later re-inspected and re-issued in 1898. In the years immediately preceding and during the Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902), the sudden expansion of British forces and the urgent demand for arms led to large quantities of older weapons and equipment being retained, refurbished, and returned to service for use by reserve units, auxiliary forces, and training establishments. The dense sequence of inspection stamps on this bayonet confirms that it remained within the British ordnance system rather than being sold out of service.
*Condition*
Blade in excellent condition, with a bright surface, crisp edge, intact point, and clear, well-struck markings throughout. The hilt is solid, showing only light service wear; grips are secure with rivets tight and spring functioning correctly. The scabbard is sound but heavily service-worn, with age cracking and an old period repair or reinforcement to the mid-section, consistent with long use. Steel mounts present with expected corrosion and patination. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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