Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, Early Issue, by H. & F. Lauterjung

 (HJ Fahrtenmesser). A well-preserved HJ member’s knife, measuring 25 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 14 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade retaining factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “BLUT UND EHRE!” (“BLOOD AND HONOUR”). The reverse bears a maker’s mark of “H. & F. LAUTERJUNG, SOLINGEN”. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated magnetic steel hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, with the seam covered by an intact blackened leather buffer pad. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are fixed in place with two aluminum rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 14 mm (w) x 24 mm (h). It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Riveted to the back of the shaft is a hanger constructed of blackened leather, fastened into a loop for belt suspension, complete with an additional strap featuring a functional snap button to secure the knife in position. A functional spring catch situated within the throat firmly holds the knife in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks and tarnishing to the blade, minor fatigue of the hilt’s nickel finish, and moderate loss of scabbard paint. This early, motto-inscribed, pre-Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) example remains in a near extremely fine condition.