This rare pattern 1855 Sappers and Miners “Lancaster” Bayonet was made under contract in Solingen, Germany. In 1855, the Sappers and miners (later Engineers) adopted the Lancaster carbine as their primary weapon and the pattern 1855 bayonet was produced to accompany it. The 1855 is a very distinctive bayonet with a pipe backed blade and quill point. Possibly one of the best-looking bayonets produced for the British army.
The 600mm pipe back blade is bright and clean with minimal pale speckles of tarnish and speckles of very shallow pitting towards the quill point. The ricasso bears the War department arrow, WD and a bend test X below a Solingen factory inspection stamp. The obverse ricasso bears the reissue date of ’03 (1903) and a Birmingham repair/refurbishment stamp. The spine of the ricasso is stamped with a refurbishment mark and Birmingham inspection stamp.
The iconic brass cross guard and bird-beak pommel are in good condition. The press-stud and external spring catch are in good working order. The chequered leather grip scales are in good condition. The spine of the tang is stamped with Birmingham repair & refurbishment stamps, a WD and the letters J.A.
The bayonet is complete with its original brass mounted leather scabbard. The leather is in very good condition and retains its original finish. The stitching is intact and tight. The back of the scabbard is stamped with a WD, Broad Arrow and Birmingham inspection marks above the date, 4/96. The locket and chape are stamped with Birmingham inspection marks. The mouth of the locket is stamped with the issue date of April 1896 and the issue number, 319. The brass furniture is in good condition. The bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a very good example of a rare and iconic British Lancaster carbine bayonet.
