French M1774 bayonet. Stamped "US". Blade 13 1/2 in., overall 16 3/4 in. long. Bore measures 21 mm.; socket length is 2 3/4 in.

The M1774, in combination with various models of .69 caliber French infantry "Charleville" muskets, saw extensive use by the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. A scarcely seen and clearly struck "US" indicates that this example was governmentally issued. Marking federally-owned weapons with a "US" became standard practice in 1777, to create a distinction between government property and arms brought to the battlefield by the soldiers themselves. This particular bayonet exhibits a warm, dark patina. 

A rare federally-issued Revolutionary War bayonet. 

Note: This lot cannot be packaged and shipped in-house. Successful bidders winning items marked as being packaged and shipped by a third-party service are responsible for paying the third party directly. We are happy to offer complimentary drop-off service to local third-party packing/shipping companies in Columbus, Ohio.

[Colonial America, 13 Colonies, Thirteen Colonies] [American Revolutionary War, American Revolution] [Relics, Militaria] [Accouterment, Equipment, Uniforms] [Ordnance, Artillery, Ammunition, Arms & Armor, Guns]