Nice example of a rare Pattern 1861 Dahlgren bowie bayonet, often referred to as the Plymouth Naval Rifle Bowie Knife Bayonet. Designed in 1856 by US Navy Admiral John A. B. Dahlgren for use aboard his ship, the USS Plymouth, this pattern of knife bayonet replaced the saber-style bayonet. These bayonets were produced for the US Navy by Ames Mfg. Co. of Chicopee, Massachusetts, in September 1861. This example is marked “U.S.N. / D.R. / 1863” on the obverse ricasso and “AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE, MASS.” on the reverse ricasso. The bayonet features an unfullered, bowie style, spear point blade that measures approximately 12" in length. The hilt is constructed of with heavy brass, 1-piece pommel, guard, and back strap with a 1-piece walnut finger grooved grip. The pommel is marked with the inspector mark “DR” for Daniel Reynolds, who inspected USN Ames Cutlasses and Dahlgren bayonets. The bayonet is complete with its original leather scabbard with brass mounts. CONDITION: The blade remains mostly bright with crisp markings and a light patina. The brass hilt exhibits a pleasing patina with scattered blemishes from age and handling. Wood grip remains intact and exhibits handling wear. The scabbard exhibits various cracks but remains firm . Brass mounts exhibit a dark patina. All retaining rivets present but drag is loose. Good overall. Blade Length: 12" Overall Length: 16 - 1/2"