Czechoslovakia, I Republic. A Balloon Unit Bayonet

A rare and well-preserved Czechoslovak Balloon Unit bayonet, measuring 425 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 290 mm-long heavil patinated magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip, sharpened lower edge, and with a fuller running the length of each side. The blade is unmarked and sits securely within an upper crossguard with insertion hole. Two pieces of dark brown wood comprise the handle grip, secured together with dual bronze rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a Balloon Unit insignia consisting of a gilded bronze hot air ballon with basket, measuring 18 mm (w) x 32 mm (h). The bayonet completes with a decorative pommel with a filled-in insertion slot and symbolic push-button catch. A letter “S” is carved into the reverse of the handle grip. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a boiled blackened leather shaft with bronze tip and throat fixtures. The latter features a downward-pointing hook, securing in place a period original black leather frog with belt loop, and retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the bayonet in place during storage. A partially-legible inscription is visible on the outer edge of the throat fixture, while an additional mark of “ME” is stamped onto the tip. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include some oxidation of the metal features, as well as fatigue to the leather elements, but this rare bayonet is in an overall near extremely fine condition.

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