Germany, Luftwaffe. A Rare Stuka Pilot Commemorative Bayonet, by Carl Julius Krebs

(Luftwaffe Bajonett). A rare and well-preserved Luftwaffe commemorative service bayonet, measuring 35 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 20 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. A wide fuller runs the majority of the length of the top edge of each side of the blade. The obverse bears an expertly acid-etched inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN MEMORY OF MY SERVICE TIME”), flanked by a depiction of a Junkers Ju 87 “Stuka”, all situated within an intricate border with flanking swastikas executed in arabesque latticework. The ricasso on the same side bears a maker’s mark of “CARL JULIUS KREBS, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s monogram logo. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated non-magnetic metal alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, with the latter also featuring a hollow insertion slot with a functional push-button spring release. An intact blackened leather buffer pad covers the seam where the blade meets the hilt. Accompanying the bayonet is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. A downward-pointing hook emanates from the side of the shaft for the accommodation of a frog, while a catch within the throat firmly holds the bayonet in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include faint running mark the blade, with sporadic scratching to the nickel plating and paint of the hilt and scabbard, respectively. A scarce example of a commemorative weapon purchased by a pilot of the Second World War’s most notable ground attack aircraft, this bayonet remains in an extremely fine condition.