Germany, Heer. A Commemorative Bayonet, by Peter Daniel Krebs

(Heer Bajonett). An extremely well-preserved Heer commemorative bayonet, measuring 350 mm in length when inserted into the scabbard. The bayonet features a 198 mm-long nickel-plated magnetic metal blade with a sharpened tip and fullers on both sides. The obverse fuller bears an etched inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN COMMEMORATION OF MY SERVICE TIME”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso has a maker’s mark of “PET. DAN. KREBS, SOLINGEN” around the firm’s scorpion logo. The blade sits securely within the nickel-plated upper crossguard, with the seam covered by a blackened leather washer. A hooked quillon emanates from the crossguard, facilitating a secure grip with the pommel. The handle grip is composed of two pieces of pebbled black bakelite, held in place by dual metal rivets. It completes with a hooked pommel and insertion slot, retaining an original red felt insert, with a functional release button. The bayonet is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of black-painted metal. The shaft bears a downward integrated hook, accommodating an original black leather frog with a belt loop. The throat of the scabbard is held together by a single visible rivet, and retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the bayonet in place during storage. Wrapped around the frog is a portepee, consisting of a stylized acorn composed of multiple rows of twisted and rolled silver-grey and blue threading on a silver-grey threaded band. The bayonet demonstrates some issues consistent with age and use, including loss of silver finish, material fatigue of the leather, and denting of the scabbard. It is in an overall very fine condition.