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Title Mauser dress bayonet, model/Gew. 1898
Nationality German
Period c 1914
Sold

This is a private purchase example. The issue bayonet was made of steel throughout, with the exception of walnut grips, and normally had a leather scabbard with iron mounts. This all-steel scabbard is an issue example, the throat being stamped with a crown and the remains of a royal monogram underneath.

The bayonet possibly dates from as early as 1905, but the all-steel scabbard was a war-time construction for the Mauser series of German bayonets, starting in 1915.

The hilt is a brass casting with a heavy, good quality nickel silver finish and fruitwood grips, typical of private purchase bayonets. Moreover, the slot for the cleaning rod is not drilled through and, therefore, would not normally be mounted on a rifle, which, of course, had the cleaning rod sticking out in front of the bayonet boss and went right through the grip.

These 'extra' bayonets were purchased normally by NCOs as a 'walking out' side arm, which they could wear when they went out of the barracks for whatever reason, the issue bayonet staying in the armoury or the man's locker.

The hilt has virtually all its original finish. There is one small patch of pitting (perhaps a few mms square at the most) in one of the fullers of the blade, which has a nickel silver finish.

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Bayonets : German : 20th Century]

testimonials

[From a vendor, rather than a buyer]

I'm delighted that you are happy with the badge and I hope you can sell it to someone who will value owning it.

I tried to sell it on eBay but they won't accept Nazi items. I then contacted several dealers via a Google search who mostly offered me £40-£50 after some haggling. Most of the other dealers tried to conceal its true value in their replies and also lacked manners which doesn't inspire confidence.

Ultimately it's about trust. I should think that most prospective sellers have done their own research and therefore know roughly what their item is worth. You were the only dealer who had the integrity to concede that my valuation was approximately correct and I respect your comment that you can't offer this as you need to make a profit. Your honest approach is greatly appreciated and I felt comfortable taking the risk in sending it to you.

Thank you for a smooth transaction

C D, UK, 01.07.2015

Just a brief note to confirm that the sabre has been delivered today. All is as it should be. I have to say I’m impressed with the ‘custom’ packaging, obviously essential in your line of business. I have made a very quick inspection of the sword & it fully lives up to your accurate description, very pleased with the purchase.

M B, UK, 18.06.2015

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