*Portuguese / Brazilian, c.1904–1910, Mauser-Vergueiro Pattern Bayonet, with Scabbard*
A scarce early 20th century Mauser-pattern sword bayonet, of the type associated with the Portuguese M1904 Mauser-Vergueiro rifle, complete with its steel scabbard. The bayonet has a single-edged fullered blade, wooden slab grips secured by two rivets, steel crossguard with muzzle ring, and rounded pommel with press-stud locking slot (button now missing). The scabbard is of the correct steel type with ball finial and belt frog stud.
The muzzle ring internal diameter of approximately 17 mm falls within the known range for Portuguese M1904, Brazilian M1908, and certain early export Mauser bayonets, which is why a definitive attribution is difficult without clear maker or arsenal markings.
The pommel is stamped 532U, while the scabbard is stamped 1108, indicating a non-matching but period correct pairing, something commonly encountered with service-used bayonets. A very faint and worn mark is present on the ricasso, possibly once showing a crowned head or Solingen-type maker’s mark, though this is now too indistinct to confirm with certainty. No clear arsenal or national crest is visible.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 29.5 cm. Overall length: 42.7 cm. Muzzle ring internal diameter: approx. 1.7 cm (17 mm), external approx. 2.4 cm.
Historical Note:
Based on the dimensions, hilt form, and muzzle ring size (approx. 17 mm internal), this bayonet most closely corresponds to the Portuguese Model 1904 Mauser-Vergueiro bayonet, made for the 6.5 mm M1904 rifle. These bayonets were produced both in Portugal and in Germany (notably Solingen), and are known with a variety of maker marks or with none at all, particularly on later contract or refurbished examples. Early Mauser-pattern export bayonets were originally finished in the white, and subsequent service use, cleaning, or arsenal refinishing often softened or removed light maker’s marks, which may explain the very faint marking visible on the ricasso of this example, despite the blade now appearing bright.
However, other possibilities cannot be completely ruled out. Bayonets of very similar pattern were produced for export contracts in the early 20th century, including the Brazilian M1908 Mauser bayonet, which was made in large numbers and is often encountered without clear maker markings, and which also falls within the same blade length and muzzle ring range. The measurements of this example, especially the approximately 17 mm muzzle ring, fall within the known range for Brazilian production.
Another, less common possibility is the Austrian M1912 export pattern, produced by Steyr for foreign contracts (including Mexico, Chile, and Colombia). These bayonets can share similar proportions (approx. 29.8 cm blade and 15.5–17.5 mm muzzle ring), but typically show Austrian maker markings such as OEWG, which are not visible on this example.
Given the form, proportions, and serial style, the bayonet is most likely Portuguese M1904 or related Vergueiro-type production, but it should be noted that early export Mauser bayonets can be difficult to attribute with complete certainty when markings are worn or absent.
*Condition*
Good honest service condition. Blade with age wear, light staining and scattered pitting, but retaining good shape and full length. No discernable maker markings. Grips worn with age and use but secure. Press-stud locking button missing from pommel. Scabbard with surface wear, dents and patina consistent with age, stamped 1108 to frog stud. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
