Siamese Type-45 Bayonet

Siamese Type 45 Mauser Bayonet – Dated R.S. 121 / 1903 – First Contract Example

One of the more interesting things about this pattern is that it was the first Mauser bayonet also interchangeable with the German export M1904 pattern, meaning Siamese Type 45 and German M1904 bayonets will fit the same rifles.

The ricasso is marked “R.S. 121” in Siamese script, dating it to 1903. This refers to Rattanakosin Sok 121, counted from the founding of Bangkok in 1782. After Siam adopted the Buddhist calendar in 1913, this pattern became known as the Type 45, with Buddhist year 2445 also equating to 1903.

This example also carries a rare inspector’s mark on the pommel below the serial number, believed to be associated with Prince J.M.C. Bawordadej, who oversaw production in Tokyo on behalf of the Royal Siamese Army. That mark is generally accepted as identifying bayonets from the first contract of 20,000.

Siam had originally hoped Mauser would produce these, but Mauser was already tied up with heavy German and Turkish military contracts. Production was instead licensed to Japan, with rifles and bayonets manufactured in 1903 at the Imperial Japanese Army Arsenal in Tokyo.

This example has been refinished, as the original finish would have been polished steel. The grips are original and show clear wear, but remain correctly fitted using the original circular nut and bolt construction. It has the expected beaked pommel, muzzle ring, press-stud catch, fullered 24.9 cm blade, and comes complete with its rolled steel scabbard.

Marks noted:

• Ricasso: “R.S. 121” in Siamese script

• Pommel: Siamese serial number plus inspector’s mark

• Scabbard frog stud: “AB” within a cartouche

Condition:

A solid early 20th century example with clear age and service wear. The wood grips are well worn with chips and dents, but remain secure. The locking mechanism works properly. The blade retains a worn blued finish with no pitting noted. Edge and point are clean, with no major dings. The scabbard has a refurbished blackened finish, no dents, and fits the bayonet properly.

A very good example of an early Siamese Mauser bayonet, with strong collector interest thanks to the early date, Japanese production, and rare first-contract inspector’s mark.