Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, by Stöcker & Co.

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). An HJ member’s knife, measuring 26 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 14 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and lower edge. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “BLUT UND EHRE!” (“BLOOD AND HONOUR!”), while the reverse ricasso is maker marked with the logo of Stöcker & Co., Solingen. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with the seam covered by a partially-intact black leather buffer pad. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are secured together with dual non-magnetic metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (h). It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the reverse of the shaft is the remnant of a black leather hanger. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and including extensive cleaning and polishing of the blade which has rendered the inscription and maker’s mark scarcely legible, fatigue of the buffer pad, minor loss of nickel plating to the hilt, moderate loss of scabbard paint, and the loss of the knife’s hanger. This extensive worn and used example remains in a very fine condition.