France, Third Republic. A Model 1874 Gras bayonet consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with clusters of nine gilt rays in eac 7 mm (w) x 22

7 mm (w) x 22

24 General Hospital at Etaples on March 20th

demonstrating near-total loss of bronze finish throughout the base metal in addition to the loss of the central backplate

the eagle is period-original

A well-preserved Heer EM/NCO’s M42 overseas cap

France, Third Republic. A Model 1874 Gras bayonet consisting of a blue enamelled Romanian Cross with clusters of nine gilt rays in eac 7 mm (w) x 22A good example of this type, well stamped on blade as well as guard, measuring 52 cm long blade that has some pitting, very fine. Footnote: The Gras was the last of the French sword type bayonets, being manufactured from 1874 until about 1885. It replaced the 1866 Chassepot bayonet and was replaced itself by the 1886 Lebel bayonet. The unique and well made T backed epee style blade was a departure from the previous Yataghan blades and was only