Germany, RLB. A National Air Raid Protection League Dress Bayonet

(Reichsluftschutzbund Bajonett). A National Air Raid Protection League (RLB) dress bayonet, measuring 365 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 210 mm-long polished magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and with fullers running down the length of each side. It sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated steel hilt. The hilt features a hooked quillon and insertion slot retaining a functional spring catch with push-button release. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite comprise the handle grip, and are secured together with two magnetic metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered bronze RLB insignia, with lettering highlighted in blue. The insignia measures 22 mm (w) x 24 mm (h). It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of black-painted magnetic metal. The throat retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the bayonet in place during storage. A downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft and connects to a period original frog, constructed of black leather and fastened into a belt loop with a row of machine stitching. Wrapped around the frog is a period original portepee, consisting of a stylized acorn constructed of silver aluminum wire and blue threading, suspended from a silver-grey embroidered cord. The set is fully unmarked and displays some issues consistent with age and use, including running marks to the blade, oxidation and loss of finish to the metal features, loss of paint to the scabbard, and some fatigue of the leather frog. It is in an overall very fine condition.