Germany, Imperial. A Patriotic Army Dress Bayonet

(Heer Bajonett). An interesting Heer (Army) dress bayonet, measuring 34 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 20 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a narrow fuller running the majority of the length of each side. The blade sits securely within a toned (black painted) magnetic metal hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, and with an insertion slot set into pommel flanked by a decorative push-button release. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are fastened in place with dual rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a gilded metal monogram of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Accompanying the bayonet is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. A downward-pointing hook emanating from the side of the shaft just below the throat accommodates a frog, which is itself constructed of multiple panels of blackened leather which are riveted into a loop for belt suspension. A functional catch within the scabbard’s throat firmly holds the bayonet in place during storage. Issues consistent with both age and wear are visible throughout, and include significant surface oxidation to the blade, blunting of the blade’s tip, loss of paint to the hilt and scabbard resulting in some surface oxidation, and material fatigue of the frog. This unusual patriotic dress bayonet remains in a very fine condition.