The Singer Mark I bayonet, featuring a crusiform blade, has always commanded a premium due to its rarity compared to other manufacturers' and models of No. 4 bayonets; however, its Variation 1 type marking has always been on my list to acquire.
What makes it a "Variation 1"? Simply the presence of the "C" in "S M C". It is assumed in the initial production at Singer Manufacturing Company that the "C" on the markings stamp failed early in its marking life. This resulted in a majority of the Mark I bayonets having the off-center "S M" in the bayonet factory markings, which continued with their Mark II bayonets.
Although it was definitely used, it was not excessively abused during its service life. The final photo is of the common Variation 2 type marking style.
What makes it a "Variation 1"? Simply the presence of the "C" in "S M C". It is assumed in the initial production at Singer Manufacturing Company that the "C" on the markings stamp failed early in its marking life. This resulted in a majority of the Mark I bayonets having the off-center "S M" in the bayonet factory markings, which continued with their Mark II bayonets.
Although it was definitely used, it was not excessively abused during its service life. The final photo is of the common Variation 2 type marking style.