Original German WWI WWII Reich’s Ministry of Aviation Marked M1898/05 n/A Butcher Bayonet by Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie with Scabbard – Dated 1916 Original Items

Original Item. Only One Available. This is a gorgeous WWI 98/05 Bayonet with post-war markings for the Reichsluftfahrtministerium, the German WWII Ministry of Aviation, which was in charge of development and production of all aircraft developed, designed, and built in Germany during the existence of the Third Reich, overseeing all matters concerning both military and civilian designs – it handled military aviation matters as its top priority, particularly for the Luftwaffe.

The bayonet blade retains most of its postwar-applied factory darkening, and has a very nice set of original grooved wood grips, with denting and some small cracks and chips from wear. The hilt and crossguard are solid, though the finish is worn to a grayish patina from use and age. Bayonet lock is fully functional. The blade ricasso is maker marked:

WEYERSBERG
KIRSCHBAUM
& CIE
SOLINGEN

This company is a famous manufacturer of military swords and cutlery in Solingen, Germany – a city famous since the middle ages for its metal-working and craftsmanship in sword making. Per J. Anthony Carter’s fine work GERMAN SWORD AND KNIFE MAKERS, the traditional manufacturing of swords at WKC dates back to the year 1774 when the Weyersberg first registered the ”Kings head” as their trademark. Later in 1883 the company merged with the Kirschbaums and the company WKC was formed as it exists today. It was heavily involved with exporting edged weapons to South American countries in the late 19th and early 20th century.

The blade is also dated on the blade’s spine 16 under a proof mark of a Crown over W., for Kaiser Wilhelm II, and the year the bayonet was accepted. There are additional markings on the spine and other areas. The blade is in very good condition, with a postwar applied blue finish. The steel scabbard is in good condition, with a worn finish and extensive denting to the exterior. This does not interfere with sheathing the bayonet at all. Postwar, the bayonet was re-issued to the Reichs Air Ministry and is marked RLM on the guard, for Reichsluftfahrtministerium.

A fine example of a WWI bayonet reissued post-war to an important department of the Third Reich. Ready for further research and display.

Dimensions:
Blade length: 14 1/2”
Blade Style: Single Edged “Butcher” with Fuller
Overall length: 19 3/4”
Crossguard: 2 3/4”
Scabbard length: 15 1/4″