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Pine Beach, NJ

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Antique Bayonet - Was it plated or just in great condition

I have recently acquired an antique WWI Bayonet. The bayonet has a very high silver shine, and I suspect that it may have been plated at some point in its history...perhaps with nickel. Is there a way to determine if this item has been plated...and if so, with what metal? I sincerely appreciate any assistance you can provide.

Dan Hickey
- Lake Ridge, Virgnina, USA
2003

Give the blade a good clean to remove oil and grease. Using a cotton swab, wipe a little concentrated copper sulphate ⇦ this on eBay or Amazon [affil links] solution on. If it is bare steel, it will instantly turn copper. Otherwise not. Be sure to wash clean and remove any staining. Its very corrosive.

Mark Gunn
CMF - NSW, Australia
2003

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