Lot 142:
Mid-19th Century Socket Bayonet with Gilded Finish
Sold for: $25
Description
This socket bayonet dates to the mid-19th century and is designed with a cylindrical socket and a straight, triangular steel blade. The blade features deep fullers on two of its faces to maintain rigidity while reducing overall weight. The socket is equipped with a rotating locking ring, a design feature popularized by French military models such as the Modele 1822. The socket and curved neck have been finished with a uniform golden-metallic coating, which covers the underlying metal texture. This type of finish was historically used for ceremonial display or for pieces presented to fraternal or veterans organizations. There are no visible manufacturer names, arsenal marks, or inspector stamps on the blade or socket. A small adhesive paper label with the handwritten number 4046 is attached to the ricasso area.
Condition report:
The steel blade exhibits significant age-related wear, including dark patination and widespread pitting, particularly concentrated near the point. The golden-toned finish on the socket and neck is largely preserved but shows scattered dark spots and minor abrasions where the base metal is visible. The metal is stable and the locking ring remains functional.
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