Up for sale is an authentic British Pattern 1888 Mk I (Type 1, 2nd Variant) dagger bayonet.
This is a great piece of late Victorian military history with direct links to the Second Boer War era.
Unlike the more common Type 2 versions, this rare, early Type 1 variant still features the original wood-drilled clearing/oil hole next to the brass rivets. This was made to clear the cleaning rods on early Lee-Metford and Long Lee-Enfield infantry rifles.
Key Details & Markings:Manufacturer: Stamped SANDERSON SHEFFIELD on the ricasso. Sanderson was a premier private contractor, making this much scarcer than common factory-issued models
.Production Date: Stamped 5 '96 (Manufactured in May 1896).Military Acceptance: Stamped 98 on the reverse side, showing it was officially inspected and accepted into British military service in 1898.Proof Marks: Full suite of crisp stamps including the War Department Broad Arrow (\(\uparrow \)), the Crown / B / 26 Birmingham inspector mark, and the official X bend test mark.Serial Number: Stamped 0355 on the steel pommel.
Condition Report:Pommel: The metal end of the pommel shows heavy historical marring, pitting, and hammer/impact marks from past field use. However, the T-shaped attachment slot remains clear and the locking catch button still moves freely under spring tension. Pricing has been adjusted down significantly to reflect this wear.
Blade: Full-length, unsharpened 12-inch spear-point blade. It has a beautiful, authentic dark grey aged patina with minor surface pitting. The tip is true and has never been broken or ground down.
Handle: Original dark walnut wood grips are completely intact with no cracks. Both original brass rivets are tight and sit completely flat.
Note: This item is sold as-is, bayonet only (no scabbard).Perfect addition for any Boer War, British Empire, or World War I militaria collector looking for a scarcer variant at an affordable entry price.
