South America, Argentina, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE; Western Europe, Germany, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A fine nickel-silver and steel bayonet or calvary sword made by the German maker W.R. Kirschbaum of Solingen, with a sheath and handle that were fashioned in Argentina, probably for military use. The steel blade features the maker mark stamped on the ricasso and a thick spine that tapers at the tip to a point - this weapon was ideal for thrusting motions. The nickel-silver guard and handle are ornamented with scrolling foliate motifs that are characteristic of Argentinean facon daggers and short swords. The matching sheath consists of a leather scabbard and nickel-silver sleeve with a chape finial embellished by a large 1882 centavo coin, and the belt clip contains a smaller 1882 coin displaying the Argentine coat of arms. Size in sheath: 26.5" L x 2" W (67.3 cm x 5.1 cm); blade: 18.3" L x 1" W (46.5 cm x 2.5 cm)

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in the 1960's

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#174244

Blade does not easily fit all the way into sheath due to leather shrinkage and hardening and is also hard to unsheathe. Black patina and oxidation on blade as shown. Surface wear commensurate with age and use. Rubbing to maker mark but still legible. Softening to coin details. Abrasion to leather on scabbard and areas of green oxidation and black patina on nickel-silver areas. Chape is loose and comes completely off from leather sleeve. Overall nice condition and a superb display item.