Imperial German M1884/98 II Bayonet, Gottlieb Hammesfahr and Bayard, 1917

An original Imperial German Seitengewehr M1884/98 II (Second Model) bayonet, complete with its steel scabbard. This pattern was the standard-issue bayonet for the Gewehr 98 rifle during the later years of the First World War, replacing earlier, longer patterns to improve practicality and production efficiency. The bayonet features a single-edged, fullered blade, fitted with wooden slab grips secured by two screws and a working press-stud pommel with a slot for rifle attachment.

The ricasso is clearly stamped, bearing the maker’s mark “Gottlieb Hammesfahr, Solingen, Foche” on one side and “Bayard” and its trademark on the other, along with the date marking “17” (1917) as well as the “Crown over W” (Wilhelm II of Prussia) and inspection marking on the spine. The pommel also bears inspector marks.

Dimensions

Overall length: approx. 385mm (15.2 in)

Blade length: approx. 25mm (9.8 in)

Condition
Good, the blade is in good condition, retaining its original profile with likely contemporary grind marks. The grips are in excellent condition, but with little finish remaining. The pommel has light pitting but is otherwise in good working order with the push-catch still functional. The scabbard’s metalwork seems to be in good order; however, it has been repainted with matte black paint