This is a rare and interesting item, the only one I’ve ever come across that remains complete with its original storage tin and two-pronged spanner.

The German Forester’s numbering hammer, also known as a marking hammer, is a well constructed, specialized tool. It was indirectly utilized by the military during the Third Reich period to mark wood for various construction purposes (e.g., for barracks, bridges, or fortifications). The hammer features a clever mechanism where the number increases when the lever is squeezed. Additionally, the second number ring rotates when a pin is pulled out to unlock it. Individual single numbers can be removed allowing for customization, and the entire system can be disassembled and reassembled.

The tool is fully functional and comes with a bag full of extra tabs. It includes the original two-pronged spanner, allowing the new owner to disassemble the head of the tool for cleaning or replacement tabs.

This is a well designed very impressive German tool, that could of quite possibly been used for stamping equipment during both World Wars.