France, Third Republic. A Model 1874 Gras Bayonet Hold 2 District Depot for training

2 District Depot for training at Debert

measuring 445 mm total length

and bearing a functional magnetic metal spring clip

engraved with an issue number of “2453”

OSANG DRESDEN

France, Third Republic. A Model 1874 Gras Bayonet Hold 2 District Depot for trainingA good example of this type with engraved script on spine dated 1876, well stamped on blade as well as guard, measuring 52 cm long blade, extremely fine. Footnote: The Gras was the last of the French sword type bayonets, being manufactured from 1874 until about 1885. It replaced the 1866 Chassepot bayonet and was replaced itself by the 1886 Lebel bayonet. The unique and well made T backed epee style blade was a departure from the previous Yataghan