Germany, DRK. A German Red Cross Subordinate’s Hewer

(Deutsches Rotes Kreuz Hauer für Mannschaften). An extremely well-preserved German Red Cross (DRK) subordinate’s hewer, measuring 415 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 270 mm-long magnetic steel blade with a squared tip, sharply serrated lower edge, and with a fuller running the length of each side. The blade is unmarked and sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated non-magnetic alloy hilt, with the seam covered by an intact black leather buffer pad. The upper crossguard features ribbed edges and dual central medallions. The obverse of the latter features a raised DRK insignia consisting of a German national eagle overlaid by a mobile swastika and clutching a large Geneva Cross, while the reverse is plain. Two pieces of black bakelite comprise the handle grip, with the obverse featuring a pebbled finish, and are fastened together with dual magnetic metal rivets. It completes with a wide, flattened pommel. The hewer is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Magnetic metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with dual side rivets, with the throat also retaining a functional spring catch, securely holding the hewer in place during storage. A downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft and secures in place a period original frog. The former is constructed of multiple pieces of heavy blackened leather, riveted into a loop for belt suspension. Unmarked, the hewer demonstrates minor issues consistent with age and wear, which include some running marks to the blade, minor loosening of the obverse handle grip, and slight fatigue of the leather frog. The hewer remains in an overall extremely fine condition.