Germany, Third Reich. A Fire Brigade Dress Bayonet, by Linnenbrügger & Ellermann

(Feuerwehr Faschinenmesser). An extremely well-preserved Feuerschutz (Fire Brigade) dress bayonet, measuring 39.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 26 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to the tip. A fuller runs the majority of the length of the upper edge of each side of the blade. The obverse ricasso is maker marked with the logo of Linnenbrügger & Ellermann, Bielefeld, a noted manufacturer of Feuerschutz blades and accessories. It sits securely within a nickel-plated non-magnetic metal alloy hilt, featuring a hooked pommel and double-hooked quillon, with a blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. Two pieces of pebbled black bakelite compose the handle grip, and are secured in position with dual non-magnetic 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, itself constructed of multiple panels of blackened leather and stitched into a loop for belt suspension. The throat retains a functional spring catch to firmly hold the bayonet in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, scratching of the hilt, and sporadic loss of paint to the scabbard. It remains in an extremely fine condition.