American Revolutionary War Period French Plug Bayonet Dagger w/ Super Rare Reversible Handle! 17th C

This exceptional French Revolutionary War era plug bayonet is a museum-worthy rarity representing one of the most innovative forms of early military edged weaponry. Dating to the 17th or 18th century, the bayonet features an exceedingly rare threaded reversible handle that allows it to function both as a bayonet and as a standalone dagger. Such dual-purpose designs reflect the practical realities of warfare during the colonial and Revolutionary War periods, when soldiers often relied on a single weapon to fulfill multiple battlefield roles. The bayonet features an 11-inch tapered blade measuring approximately 17.5 inches overall and is accompanied by its original leather-covered scabbard fitted with its original suspension rings, a remarkable survival for a military weapon of this age. Fine silver-mounted accents further elevate the piece and demonstrate the quality of its manufacture.

Plug bayonets represent the earliest form of bayonet technology, predating the socket bayonet designs that would eventually dominate military service. Rather than fitting around the barrel, these bayonets inserted directly into the muzzle of a musket, instantly transforming the firearm into a spear-like weapon for close combat. French examples played an important role throughout the colonial era, the French and Indian War, and the American Revolutionary War. Surviving examples featuring reversible handles and original scabbards are exceptionally scarce, particularly those retaining their period fittings and elegant silver-mounted construction.

This is an outstanding collector opportunity combining rarity, functionality, and historical significance. The threaded reversible handle, original leather scabbard with suspension rings, silver-mounted construction, and Revolutionary War-era association place this example among the most desirable forms of early military bayonets. Pieces of this quality are seldom encountered and would be equally at home in an advanced collection of Revolutionary War militaria, early French arms, or museum-level edged weapons.

Similar examples can be found in the reference book Swords & Blades of the American Revolution by George C. Neumann Pg. 34, 9.B but this a much more rare reversible model!

Provenance: From a retired military-era museum curator with a specialized collection of American and Napoleonic militaria.

Dimensions: Blade Length 11 inches. Overall Length 17.5 inches. Scabbard approximately 11.25 inches in length.

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