PENNY AUCTION – U.S. Model 1873 Springfield Trapdoor Bayonet Scabbard – Indian Wars Era – Unit Marked & Soldier Initialed

Offered in this auction is one very nice original U.S. Model 1873 Springfield Trapdoor bayonet scabbard, dating from the Indian Wars era, complete with its original-style leather frog, U.S.-marked brass attachment, unit marking, and soldier's initials.

This is an especially interesting example because it retains markings that give the piece considerably more character than the average unmarked scabbard. It would make an excellent replacement for a collector who already owns a Model 1873 Trapdoor bayonet but is missing the proper period scabbard.

CONDITION & FEATURES

• Original U.S. Model 1873 Springfield Trapdoor bayonet scabbard

• Indian Wars-era U.S. military equipment

• Original steel scabbard body

• Retains a substantial amount of its original blued finish

• Only scattered areas of light age-related patina

• No major structural damage observed

• Original-style leather frog/belt hanger

• Correct U.S.-marked brass attachment/button

• Leather remains in very good condition for its age

• Desirable unit marking present on the leather

• Additional soldier's initials present

• Excellent replacement scabbard for an original Model 1873 Trapdoor bayonet

The steel scabbard body remains particularly attractive, retaining the majority of its original blue finish with only light patina and honest age-related wear throughout. Overall, the metal remains solid and displays exceptionally well for a piece of late-19th-century U.S. military equipment.

The leather frog is equally interesting. The familiar U.S.-marked brass fitting remains present, along with what appears to be a period unit marking and the initials of an individual who may have been issued or owned the scabbard. We have not positively identified the unit or individual, leaving an interesting avenue for additional research by the next owner.

The Model 1873 Springfield Trapdoor and its associated equipment are synonymous with the post-Civil War frontier Army and Indian Wars period, making original accoutrements such as this increasingly desirable among collectors.

Whether used to complete an existing Model 1873 bayonet or displayed as a piece of original U.S. military equipment in its own right, the combination of strong original finish, surviving leather, U.S. fitting, unit marking, and soldier's initials gives this example tremendous character.

A very nice original Indian Wars-era U.S. Model 1873 Springfield Trapdoor bayonet scabbard with unit and individual markings that would make a fine addition to any Springfield Trapdoor, Indian Wars, U.S. Army, bayonet, or advanced American militaria collection.