Germany, Heer. A Heer Commemorative Bayonet by Lauterjung & Co.

(Heer Bajonett). An extremely well-preserved Heer commemorative bayonet, measuring 405 mmm when inserted into the scabbard. The blade, constructed of nickel-plated magnetic metal, measures 255 mm in length and features a richly-detailed, acid-etched Wehrmacht eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, flanked by oak leaves and stylized mobile swastikas. The eagle is flanked by an inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN MEMORY OF MY SERVICE TIME”). The blade features maker marks on both the obverse and reverse ricasso, the former consisting of an etched tiger and the reverse reading “TIGER, SOLINGEN” for the firm of Lauterjung & Co. A blackened leather washer covers the seam with the upper crossguard, itself constructed of nickel-plated zink and presenting with a hooked quillon. The handle is of multi-piece construction, and consists of two pebbled black bakelite grips held together with two visible magnetic metal rivets. The pommel features an insertion slot with its original red wool insert, along with a functional spring-loaded push button for secure attachment to a rifle. The bayonet is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of black painted metal and features a hook attaching to a period original black leather frog. The frog is held together by three visible magnetic metal rivets, is unmarked, and measures 210 mm in length. Minor running marks are evident to the blade, there is a chip to the bakelite handle grip near the upper crossguard, some loss of paint to the scabbard, and age-appropriate material fatigue to the frog. The bayonet is in an overall near extremely fine condition.