German WW1 S98/05 Butcher’s Blade Bayonet by Weyersberg & Kirschbaum. Solingen.
This 2nd pattern S98/05 Butchers blade bayonet was designated as “a.N” meaning “art neuer” or “new type.” The second pattern butcher bayonet has the vestigial muzzle ring further shortened and a steel flash guard added to the hilt. The second pattern a.N was made from 1915 until 1918 and came with a metal scabbard. This bayonet is dated 1917.
The 37cm butchers blade has a deep single fuller on both sides, the blade widening towards the point and is very good condition with minor age related greying. The blade is marked on the ricasso “Weyersberg Kirschbaum & CIE” over “Solingen.” The spine is stamped with crowned “W” inspection marks and the date “17” for 1917. The steel cross guard and pommel are also stamped with inspection marks (Waffenampt).
The steel scabbard is also marked on the throat and ball finial with waffenampt and is in great condition, retaining its original finish with very mild pitting and tarnish. The scabbard is missing its small screw above the frog stud.
The wooden hilt scales are appropriately age darkened and are in very good condition.
This is a great example of a highly collectable WW1 bayonet.
