Spanish or French Early Plug Bayonet 17th century

 An early european Plug Bayonet. Predating the later form which attaches around the barrel of the gun, these early forms were inserted directly into the barrel of the musket itself, converting the gun ito a spear in effect, although the disadvantage of this being that the gun is unable to be fired whilst thus set up. This example is probably Spanish, possibly French, with the handle made from a piece of horn, brass mounts. The blade is age worn, single knife edge with a sharpened back edge. 17th century, or early 18th century.