U.S. Model 1798 Socket Bayonet Harpers Ferry

This is a U.S. Model 1798 Socket Bayonet. It is a variation of the socket bayonet listed as figure BA38A-J on age 31-33 of the book by Robert Reilly entitled American Socket Bayonets and Scabbards. He labels them as the U.S. model 1798 Contract Era Bayonets. This example has "PI" and what looks like a "A" stamped into the blade, which Robert Reilly states, these symbols may represent Joseph Perkins, superintendent of Harpers Ferry Armory during the early 1800's and are worthy of special comment. This 1798 has a just under 14" blade, .865" ID socket 2.59" long socket, 16 3/4" over-all length and about a 5" face flute. The bayonet is in very good condition with some light dings on the blade, light surface oxidation and lots of silver gray finish. A very scarce Maker marked Bayonet.