^Lot 3332 U.S. INDIAN WAR ERA MODEL 1873 TROWEL BAYONET FOR

THE TRAPDOOR SPRINGFIELD RIFLE. 10" blade. 14 5/8" overall. The nicely made steel blade has a reinforcing spine down the back. Integral steel socket serves as a handle, the rear portion of which turns to allow it to lock to the rifle. Bayonet is unmarked. Handle is blued steel. Blade is finished bright. Bayonet is equipped with a reproduction walnut plug, which was inserted in the bayonet handle to allow for a more comfortable grip when digging. These bayonets remained in service until approximately 1890 when the rod bayonet rifle was adopted. Brown leather scabbard. Belt loop attached by brass US roundel. The unmarked scabbard has a brass tip and metal throat. CONDITION: bright blade has peppery oxidation throughout with light wear. Handle retains 70% of its original blue with scattered spots of light oxidation. Plug is in very good condition. Scabbard has extensive wear and flexing. Notable flexing on strap attached to body of scabbard. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of John "Jack" Dhooghe. (02-25561/RW). NON-GUN. $200-400.