French M 1892 Mannlicher Bertier bayonet. Matching. First model, with rare blade spine inscription. (ABCN874-1)(K636)(JN73-2)

Mannlicher Berthier carbine M 1892. Low serial number: A  16560 Matching! on quillon. First model. Superb bright finished fullered blade with a typical V-form in the spine running to tip and a square fuller. Blade spine with the very early and very crisp French maker's inscription and date: Mre. d Ármes de Chatt. Aout 1893. (= Made at the National Weapons factory of Châtellerault, August 1893 ). Three inspection markings B and C in circles and C in a diamant shape on the ricasso. Excellent bright fin ished pommel and crossguard with intact forward swept quillon. Left side of the quillon is marked: C in a diamant shape. First model: short muzzle ring. MRD 13 mm. Excellent black composition grips affixed to the blade tang by two small steel pins. Usual small defects around the rivets only.
Excellent blued dents free scabbard.Two French inspection markings above the Matching serial number. 

Only the first M 1892 models had blade spine inscriptions. These are very rare and seldom found. 
Note: After damage during WWI, the fragile composite grips were replaced by wooden grips. This one escaped.

Very nice scarce example!