French Model 1842 Yataghan Sword Bayonet

This heavy bladed yataghan sword bayonet was first developed as the French Model 1840 and is longer and heavier in the blade with the crosspiece made of steel instead of brass. The Model 1842 was replaced by the Model 1866, the common Chassepot Model 1866 bayonet, which itself is a beautiful yataghan bayonet with a lighter blade. This specimen has grip painted black. Steel crossguard with quillon and cock’s comb above muzzle ring. There is a cursive “E” on the crossguard. Another “E” and a number located inside the mounting mortise on the back of the hilt. Date 1854 is stamped on the ricasso but no other markings on the back of the blade or elsewhere. Good condition, double fullered yataghan blade shows grey patina. No scabbard. Some of these bayonets were used in the US Civil war.