French M1866 Chassepot Bayonet, St Etienne 1871, Matching

Original era manufacture. Made at St.Etienne arsenal in February of 1871 during the final days of the Franco-Prussian War. Matching numbers guard to blade, L38441. The scabbard body is dent-free but presents a rough texture due to old corrosion as does the guard. The blade is gray showing evidence of an old cleaning of surface corrosion, markings remain clear.