Rare Original Spencer Saber Bayonet for the Navy Rifle – Collins & Co

Rare Original Spencer Saber Bayonet for the Navy Rifle – Collins & Co., 1861
This rare Federal accoutrement is an original Spencer saber bayonet, specifically manufactured for the Spencer Navy Rifle, and remains in fine original condition. Produced by Collins & Company of Collinsville, Connecticut, this bayonet is one of only 750 saber bayonets ever contracted for naval use, making it an exceptionally scarce piece of Civil War-era military equipment.
The bayonet measures just over 20¾ inches in length, with a blade width of ¾ inch, expanding to 1 1/16 inches at the hilt. The cast brass handle retains its original character, though the serial number stamped into the top flat is unfortunately no longer legible due to wear.
The obverse ricasso is clearly stamped with the date “1861”, marking it as an early production piece. The reverse ricasso bears the manufacturer’s mark, “Collins & Co / Hartford, Conn.”, though the stamp is incomplete—missing the "C" in "Collins" and the "D" in "Hartford"—likely due to a weak strike or worn die at the time of production.
Notably, the iron release push pin is missing, a common issue with bayonets of this age. The brass components exhibit a rich, bronze patina, further emphasizing the bayonet’s age and authenticity.
An outstanding and exceedingly scarce example of a Civil War-era naval bayonet, this piece would make a superb addition to any serious military or edged weapons collection.
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