The Siamese (Thai) Type 45 bayonet was produced in Japan under license from Mauser in Germany. 40,000 Type 45 rifles and bayonets were produced in1903 at the Imperial Japanese Arsenal at Tokyo.
The 250mm single-edged blade has a flat spine above a deep single fuller. The blade terminates in a spear point. The blade is in very good condition, free of rust and tarnish and was service sharpened. The ricasso bears Siamese characters, translated as; "R.S. 121." This represents the year of manufacture, 1903 in the Gregorian calendar. "R.S. 121" is an abbreviation for Rattanakosin Sok 121. This refers to the 121st year of the Rattanakosin Era, which began with the founding of Bangkok in 1782.
The polished steel cross guard/muzzle ring and pommel are in very good condition. The press stud mechanism is in crisp working order. The end of the pommel is stamped with a serial number in Siamese. The wooden grip scales have dings and wear consistent with their age and use.
The bayonet is complete with its original steel scabbard. The scabbard retains its original blueing with frog wear to the upper third. The scabbard is in good condition and the bayonet sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a great example of a 121-year-old Siamese type 45 Mauser bayonet.
