This is an early version of the well known 98/05 German bayonet “butcher bayonet.” It features a leather scabbard, a high-ears crossguard and lacks a flash guard. This version was produced from 1905 to 1915 before being redesigned into a simplified version to streamline production and reduce costs, making it quicker to mass produce.

The wooden grips show general age and wear but are still in good condition, secured by the original screw bolts. The upper pommel has a functioning rifle retaining button and displays two stamped proof marks on the rear. The crossguard is the earlier, more desirable “high ears” version, which was intended to provide additional protection to the hand during combat. There is also another proof stamp located on the underside of the crossguard.

The blade is in good condition and marked “ERFURT” on the ricasso. The spine of the blade features a “W” under a crown, dated 1914, along with a proof stamp.

The early leather scabbard shows wear but remains undamaged. The bottom scabbard mount still has its original staples and shows a proof stamp. The top scabbard fitting also retains its original staples and proof stamp, but displays unit markings, which are desirable for collectors, as they offer the chance to research the bayonet’s history.

The unit markings on the bayonet read “24.P.2.149.” This indicates that the bayonet was issued to the 24th Regiment. The “P” stands for Pionier (engineer or pionier battalion). The number “2” refers to the 2nd Company of the regiment, while “149” is the weapon number assigned within the company. This marking system was used to track which bayonet belonged to which soldier, regiment, or company, ensuring accountability for the equipment.