Rare first pattern example of the M1898aA quill point sword bayonet. This was the first bayonet produced for use with the Mauser Gewehr 98 rifle using the new and soon to be widely copied bar mounting system.
The 522mm single-edged blade has a rounded, pipe-back spine above a single, narrow fuller. The blade terminates in a double-edged quill point. The ricasso is stamped with the mark of the Prussian Royal Armoury, a crown above the name “Erfurt.” The spine is stamped with the crowned W acceptance mark of Kaiser Wilhelm and the date ’01 (1901) as well as an inspection fractur. The blade is in excellent condition.
The steel cross piece is stamped with the regimental mark for the 50th (3rd Lower Silesian) Infantry, 6th battalion, weapon number 249. The steel pommel bears two inspection marks (fractur). The press-stud mechanism is crisp and in perfect working order.
The rarely found wrap-around wooden grip that distinguishes the first pattern bayonet from later models is in excellent condition.
This regimentally marked and rare first pattern M1898aA bayonet is in fantastic condition for its age and service.
