Germany, Third Reich. A Buchenwald-Manufactured German Equipment Works Table Fork

(Deutsche Ausrüstungswerke Gabel). Constructed of a silvered non-magnetic metal alloy, the obverse plain and with a tapering handle, the reverse stamped with a mark of “DAW” for Deutsche Ausrüstungswerke (German Equipment Works) and an inscription of “K.L. BUCHENWALD” for Konzentrationslager Buchenwald, indicating manufacture by SS-directed forced labour at the eponymous camp, measuring 24 mm (w) x 196 mm (l), with minor tarnishing evident throughout, in near extremely fine condition.

Footnote: German Equipment Works (DAW) was a state-directed defence contractor owned and operated by the SS. Producing boots, uniforms, and accoutrements, it operated out of a series of concentration camps and expropriated factories throughout Europe, with goods produced by forced labour. The example offered was manufactured by inmates of the camp at Buchenwald.