Salisbury Antiques Centre

Description

A good late 19th century British Lee–Metford pattern bayonet, dated 1899 and stamped Wilkinson London, complete with its original leather scabbard and frog.

This example features a single-edged fullered blade, clearly stamped “Wilkinson London 10 ’99”, together with inspection and War Department marks, confirming manufacture in October 1899. Wilkinson was one of the foremost British military sword and bayonet makers of the period, renowned for the quality of its steel and precision finishing.

The bayonet retains its original wooden grip scales secured by brass rivets, with steel pommel and crossguard showing honest service wear consistent with age. The blade remains in good condition with clear markings and a pleasing patina.

Importantly, the bayonet is accompanied by its original leather scabbard and period frog, the leather having developed a rich, dark tone. The presence of the correct frog significantly enhances both display appeal and collectability.

The Lee–Metford bayonet was issued for use with the .303 calibre Lee–Metford rifle and later early Lee–Enfield rifles, seeing service during the closing years of the Victorian period, including the Boer War era.

A desirable and increasingly collectable piece of late Victorian British military history, ideal for collectors of British edged weapons, Boer War memorabilia, or Wilkinson-made arms.