Germany, Heer. A Commemorative Service Bayonet, by Robert Klaas

(Heer Bajonett). A Heer commemorative service bayonet, measuring 35 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 approximately two-thirds of the length of each side of the blade near the top edge. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an elongated Wehrmacht eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, flanked by an inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN MEMORY OF MY SERVICE TIME”), in turn flanked by oak leaves and arabesques. The obverse ricasso also bears a maker’s mark of “ROBERT KLAAS, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic kissing cranes logo. It sits securely within a one-piece silver-plated alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with an intact black leather buffer pad covering the seam. The pommel features a hollow insertion slot with a functional push-button spring release. The handle grip is composed of two pieces of pebbled black bakelite, secured together with dual non-magnetic metal rivets. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Emanating from the side of the shaft is a downward-pointing hook for the accommodation of a frog, while the throat retains a functional spring catch to firmly hold the bayonet in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident throughout, and include some running marks and oxidation to the blade, as well as extensive oxidation and loss of finish to the silver-plated features. The bayonet is in an overall very fine condition.