Germany, Luftwaffe. A Commemorative Service Bayonet, with Engraving, by Gustav Spitzer

(Luftwaffe Bajonett). A well-preserved Luftwaffe commemorative service bayonet, measuring 39 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. Wide fullers run the majority of the top edge of each side of the blade. Notably, the obverse bears an acid-etched inscription of “ZUR ERINNERUNG AN MEINE DIENSTZEIT” (“IN MEMORY OF MY SERVICE TIME”), flanked by a depiction of a Luftwaffe training aircraft in mid-flight. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “GUSTAV SPITZER, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s lion logo. It sits securely within a nickel-plated non-magnetic metal alloy hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, with the latter featuring a hollow insertion slot which retains a functional push-button spring release. An intact blackened leather buffer pad covers the seam where the blade meets the hilt. 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 hanger, while a functional catch within the throat holds the bayonet in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, scratching of the hilt ,and loss of scabbard paint resulting in some surface oxidation. This interesting engraved bayonet remains in a better than very fine condition.