Rare British P1856 Enfield Saber Bayonet - Flush Muzzle Ring Variant - Script Spine - Original Preserved Leather Grip
Up for sale is a remarkably scarce, highly collectible British Pattern 1856 Enfield Yataghan Saber Bayonet, manufactured between 1856 and 1858.This historic piece features its full-length, unsharpened recurved steel blade with a single prominent fuller. The flat spine of the blade is decorated with its original, highly distinct European private-contractor manufacturer inscription engraved in cursive script writing near the hilt—a highly desirable, premium detail sought after by serious collectors of early British Victorian-era militaria and Civil War imports.
## Item Specifics
* Pattern: British Pattern 1856/1858 Enfield (Short Rifle / Naval Rifle / Artillery Carbine)
* Blade Style: Yataghan recurved saber blade
* Muzzle Ring Configuration: Early-style flush muzzle ring, resting completely flat against the lug rail track. Internal diameter measures exactly 21.9mm (precisely verified via digital caliper photo, ideal for proper Short Rifle/Naval barrel fitment).
* Grip Type: Two-piece scale configuration pinned to the tang
## Condition Details
This bayonet has successfully undergone a meticulous, history-respecting conservation process to preserve its structural integrity. The steel blade, crossguard, and pommel exhibit a stable, deep, uniform dark historic patina with areas of fine historical pitting and mottling, completely free of active red rust. The tight 90-degree corners where the ricasso meets the crossguard and the channels inside the pommel track have been carefully scraped clean of over a century of packed grease and debris. The internal locking press-button mechanism has been flushed, functions perfectly, and compresses smoothly against the spring. Most importantly, the fragile, dark remnants of the original leather covering the grip scales have been completely stabilized and treated with Pecard Antique Leather Care to prevent flaking or dry rot. Additionally, the entire weapon has been treated with Renaissance wax for a museum grade layer of protection. Note that there is an ever-so-slight "kick" to the left in the final few inches of the blade (see picture). Not unusual at all for a blade of this length & age.
## Photo Inspection Reminder
Please carefully review the high-resolution photographs provided to inspect the exact condition of the metalwork, the flow of the cursive script on the blade spine, the flush mounting of the muzzle ring on the hilt rail, and the precise placement of the stabilized original leather on the handle. The item pictured is the exact bayonet you will receive.
## Collector Statement
As a dedicated collector and respecter of history, I treat these artifacts with the highest level of care. My conservation process focuses entirely on halting decay and preserving historical integrity without stripping away the authentic character, patina, or story of the weapon. I always provide an honest, transparent assessment so you can offer with absolute confidence. I am happy to provide additional details or more images if requested - just message me!
## Shipping Assurance
Your bayonet will be securely packaged using heavy-duty, protective materials and robust structural bracing to ensure it safely survives transit and arrives at your door in the exact condition shown.
## Invitation to Make an Offer
If you are looking to anchor your British Enfield or Victorian military display with a highly unique, early-variant pattern, please feel free to make an offer. All reasonable offers are gladly welcome and considered!
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