Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by Paul Seilheimer

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). An HJ member’s knife, measuring 25.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 14 cm-long magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and lower edge. The reverse of the blade bears the maker’s logo of Paul Seilheimer, Solingen, and is otherwise unmarked. It sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel to allow for a firm grip. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are secured together with dual non-magnetic metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (h). It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the reverse of the shaft is a blackened leather strap with functional magnetic metal snap button for belt suspension. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include tarnishing and running marks to the blade, loss of finish and minor oxidation to the plated metal elements, chipping to the enameled insignia, fatigue of the scabbard’s strap, and the loss of the scabbard’s spring catch, rendering the knife loose during storage. This early knife is in an overall very fine condition.