Germany, Third Reich. A Rare Reichsfinanzverwaltung Commemorative Service Bayonet, by F.W. Höller

(Reichsfinanzverwaltung Bajonett). A well-preserved Reichsfinanzverwaltung (Reich Finance Administration) commemorative service bayonet, measuring 40.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25 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 acid-etched inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN MEMORY OF MY SERVICE TIME”), surrounded by an oak leaf border. The obverse ricasso also bears a maker’s mark of “F.W. HÖLLER, SOLINGEN”, surrounding the firm’s classic thermometer logo with 17 ticks. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated non-magnetic metal 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. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are fastened in place with dual domed non-magnetic metal rivets. 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, which is included and constructed of multiple panels of blackened leather which are stitched into a loop for belt suspension. Wrapped around the frog is a Reichsfinanzverwalting knot, consisting of a silver aluminum wire acorn with a green threaded cap, suspended from a green rayon cord trimmed along both edges with machine-embroidered silver aluminum wire tresses. A functional catch within the scabbard’s throat holds the bayonet in place during storage. Some issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include minor running marks to the blade and fatigue to the frog. This scarce example, privately-purchased a service memento by an employee of the Reich Finance Administration, remains in an overall near extremely fine condition.