British Pattern 1888 2nd Type Lee-Metford Bayonet with British and South African Markings

This bayonet measures 16 5/8" overall, with a 12" straight, double-edged blade with raised central rib.  The ricasso has a December, 1895, date with "(Crown) / VR" cypher, and clear "WD" and proof marks opposite.  The steel has an overall dull gray patina with some very mild freckling here and there, as well as linear marks from the scabbard on both faces.  The crossguard has an overall plum-brown patina with even pinprick pitting on the muzzle-ring, quillon, and pommel, while the wooden grips, held by two brass rivets, have many small handling marks and blemishes in the thick oil finish.  The pommel has a functional press stud and has a legible unit marking on the reverse: "8. EX / 381" (The Essex Regiment).  The bayonet comes with an original leather and steel scabbard which is fitted with a brown leather frog whose buckle strap has come detached on one side.  The leather is in very good shape otherwise, and has a crisp "U (Broad Arrow)" South African property mark on the outer face of the belt loop.  This is a desirable British bayonet, with an interesting array of markings, and is in very good-fine condition overall.