Interesting German style plug bayonet with British motto

[Richard G]

Originally Posted by fernando

Don't hit my hard, Shawn. My knowledge of plug bayonets is purely residual. Reason why i dare ask; could it be that this hexagonal blade is actually British and was mounted in a German grip at a later stage ... for whatever reason ? .

I would hazard a guess that the blade is not British. The Royal Cypher at the time was usually a plain or intertwined GR beneath a crown. There was no need to expand upon this as his title of 'Rex Britanae' (which would have been 'Britannia' anyway) would have been taken for granted.
I could be wrong, and there are always exceptions.
Also George II was also Elector of Hanover and visited several times.
Just my thoughts
Best wishes
Richard

[Bayowolf]

I see no reason to think the blade was put with the handle later. It certainly appears to be untouched peening. The age of the blade and the hilt matchup nicely with other known examples. While I can't completely rule out a composite piece. I see no reason to think this is.

For Richard G- Yes, Hannover or Brunswick were obviously my first thoughts with their ties to George. But as I have stated there is a Hessian connection to George as well.

The Hessian museum bayonet is attached. Not very good images, I'm afraid.

[fernando]

Duly noted, Shawn .