A Rare Springfield Medical Bolo, Circa 1890, 12ins bright steel blade etched with "Hospital Corps U

S Army", in lozenge, brass cross guard and fittings, 4ins turned wood grip, 16ins overall in original sturdy leather and brass mounted scabbard, the scabbard bears the Rock Island Arsenal WTG inspection mark
Note: 1056 of these knives where manufactured at the Springfield Armoury between 1889-1991, the purpose was for medical corps use in clearing brush and making improvised splints etc.