Germany, Heer. A Dress Bayonet

(Heer Bajonett). A Heer dress bayonet, measuring 39 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 20 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and lower edge. A narrow fuller runs the majority of the length of the top edge of each side of the blade. It is plain with the exception of an inscription of “SOLINGEN” stamped onto the reverse ricasso. It sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with a hollow insertion slot set into the pommel, retaining both a functional push-button spring release and original red wool insert. The handle grip is composed of two pieces of pebbled black bakelite secured together with dual magnetic metal rivets. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. A nickel-plated fitting is secured to the tip, while a downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft to accommodate a frog. The former is included and is constructed of blackened leather, securely stitched into a loop for belt suspension. Wrapped around the frog is a matching portepee, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn interspersed with black threading, suspended from a strap of identical construction. The throat has a functional spring catch to firmly hold the bayonet in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some runnings marks to the blade, loss of nickel plating to the hilt, significant oxidation of the scabbard, and some fatigue of the portepee. It remains in a very fine condition.