Germany, Heer. An Infanterie-Regiment 41 Commemorative Service Bayonet, by P.D. Lüneschloss

(Heer Erinnerungs-Bajonett). An extremely well-preserved and fine-quality Heer commemorative service bayonet, measuring 40 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. Acid-etched onto the obverse is a Heer-style German national eagle clutching a mobile swastika, flanked by an inscription of “ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“REMEMBERING MY SERVICE TIME”), situated within an oak leaf frame. The reverse of the blade similarly bears an acid-etched unit attribution of “41. INF. REGT. AMBERG/BAYER. OSTMARK”, also situated within an oak leaf border. A maker’s mark of “P.D. LÜNESCHLOSS, SOLINGEN” appears on the reverse ricasso, and circumscribes the firm’s logo. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy hilt which features a hooked quillon and pommel, with an intact blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. A hollow insertion slot is set into the pommel, and retains a functional push-button spring release. Two pieces of polish staghorn compose the handle grip, and are fixed in position with dual 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 consists of multiple panels of blackened leather stitched into a loop for belt suspension. A functional spring catch situated within the throat firmly holds the bayonet in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, moderate loss of scabbard paint, and some material fatigue to the frog. This unit-dedicated example, demonstrating quality of construction emblematic of the owner’s pride in his military service, remains in an extremely fine condition.