Germany, Heer. An Engraved Dress Bayonet, by Lauterjung & Co.

(Heer Bajonett). A very well-preserved Heer commemorative dress bayonet, measuring 410 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 255 mm-long polished magnetic steel blade, with fullers running down the length of each side. The obverse bears a finely-detailed acid-etched inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN MEMORY OF MY SERVICE TIME”), flanked by a Stahlhelm and Wehrmacht eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika. A maker’s mark near the reverse ricasso reads “PUMA, SOLINGEN” for the firm of Lauterjung & Co., topped by the company’s classic puma head logo. The blade sits securely within a one-piece nickel-plated zink alloy hilt, featuring a hooked quillon and insertion slot with a functional spring catch and push-button release. An intact black leather buffer pad covered the seam Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite comprise the handle grip, and are fastened together with dual 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. The throat retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the bayonet in place during storage. While well-preserved, issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include running marks to the blade, minor oxidation of the metal features, and some loss of paint to the scabbard. It is in an overall near extremely fine condition.