Germany, HJ. A Member’s Knife, Late-Issue Unmarked Version

(HJ Fahrtenmesser). An unusual, late-war HJ member’s knife, measuring 25.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 14 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to the tip and lower edge. Unmarked, the blade sits securely within a nickel-plated zink alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with an intact blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are fastened in place with dual magnetic metal rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is an enameled HJ insignia measuring 15 mm (w) x 25 mm (l). Accompanying the knife is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted metal alloy hilt. Riveted to the reverse of the shaft is a boiled and blackened leather strap, fashioned into a loop for belt suspension, which retains a functional magnetic metal snap button. A spring catch located within the throat holds the knife in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include tarnishing and running marks to the blade, with chipping of the lower edge, in addition to near-total loss of nickel plating to the hilt, chipping of the handle insignia, loss of paint to the scabbard shaft, and some fatigue of the hanger. This scarce example of an unmarked HJ, demonstrating quality of construction reflective of Germany’s deteriorating access to resources owing to wartime conditions, remains in a fair condition.