An interesting and honest example of the German M1884/98 bayonet, originally produced prior to the First World War and later adapted for use on the Gewehr 98 rifle. These bayonets are believed to have utilised surplus blades from the earlier M1871/84 pattern, modified to serve reserve and territorial formations, including cyclist units, during the Imperial German period. A fascinating transitional pattern with clear regimental markings and strong historical character throughout.

Blade

The blade remains bright overall and retains its twin long fullers, running almost the full length of the blade. There is a patch of pitting visible to the spine area, along with general age-related wear and evidence of period sharpening. The blade has lost most of its original pointed tip and now presents with a more rounded profile, though it has not been aggressively abused or excessively ground.

The ricasso is maker marked Alex Coppel Solingen, a highly regarded German maker active through both the Imperial and later WWII periods.

To the spine is the Imperial crown over W inspection mark, followed by the date 1888, with further Imperial inspection stamps beneath.

Hilt & Grips

The bayonet retains a nice set of original wooden grips showing only light wear from service use, with no notable damage. The grips remain secured by their original fixing bolts.

The rifle retaining button remains fully functional, with the top of the hilt showing two Imperial inspection stamps.

To the reverse of the crossguard is a regimental marking, although partially worn with age. The visible marking includes an R denoting Reserve issue, followed by company and weapon numbers. The final sequence appears to read Company 8 and weapon number 186. Personally, regiment-marked bayonets always add extra interest, as they offer collectors the opportunity for further historical research into the unit and issue history.

Scabbard

The original leather scabbard is included and remains in very good condition for its age. The leather has aged extremely well and is certainly better than most examples encountered today.

Both metal fittings remain intact. The lower fitting still retains its original staples, with an inspection stamp visible beneath the rear staple. The upper throat fitting retains its original throat screw, along with two further inspection stamps to the top.

To the rear of the upper fitting is another regimental marking reading 115 RR 316, indicating Reserve Regiment issue with corresponding weapon number.

The bayonet fits the scabbard very well with a nice firm fit.

Overall

Overall, this is not a mint example, but it is a solid, honest and attractive Imperial German bayonet with genuine age, clear markings, regimental history, and an appealing untouched look throughout.

Historical Note

The German M1884/98 pattern represents an important transitional stage in Imperial German bayonet development. Prior to the widespread issue of newly manufactured Gewehr 98 bayonets, Germany adapted older M1871/84 blades for continued military use by reserve, territorial and support formations. Many of these bayonets saw service during the early years of the First World War, particularly with second-line and reserve units.

Regimental markings such as those found on this example were standard practice within the Imperial German Army and can often provide valuable insight into the unit history of the piece. Surviving examples retaining matching military issue characteristics and original leather scabbards are becoming increasingly difficult to find today.

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