A very attractive early German Model 98/05 bayonet, commonly known as the “Butcher” bayonet, in the desirable high ears configuration. This example is dated 1915 and is complete with a matching wartime leather frog also dated 1915, along with a period troddel. A well-matched WWI set with strong visual appeal and honest service character throughout.

Blade

The blade is clean and bright overall, retaining a good tip and showing no signs of heavy or abusive sharpening. There is visible staining present, consistent with age and service use, but the blade remains very presentable.
The maker is Carl Eichhorn Solingen, noted here as an uncommon maker for the 98/05 pattern, particularly compared to more frequently encountered producers.
The blade spine is stamped with a crown over letter, the date 1915, and an inspection stamp. An additional inspection stamp is present beneath the crossguard.

Hilt & Grips

Steel hilt with intact early high ears crossguard. The grips are in good condition; when viewed face-on and from the rear they present very well. Along the spine of the grips there are some chips and indentations, though these are not noticeable in normal display.
The rifle retaining button is fully functional. Two inspection stamps are present on the top of the pommel. The original screw bolts remain in place, each retaining its individual inspection stamp.

Scabbard

Original steel scabbard showing a consistent colour and finish that matches the crossguard and hilt, indicating the bayonet and scabbard have lived together. The throat screw is present. Inspection stamps are visible on the scabbard throat and on the lower ball.
There are a couple of indentations to the rear of the scabbard, which are not severe but should be noted. On the side of the scabbard there is a distinct round puncture consistent with an impact; the exact cause is unknown and is left to the buyer’s interpretation. Overall, the scabbard remains solid and displayable.

Frog

Wartime leather frog dated 1915, correctly matching the bayonet. The small leather tab above the frog stud is missing, a common occurrence on WWI frogs. Some stitching is missing on either side; however, the frog remains firmly held together by its rivets, all four of which are present and secure. The leather body remains structurally sound.
A maker mark is present above the date but is not legible. The leather is in good condition.

Overall

A complete and well-matched WWI German 98/05 bayonet set retaining its early high ears configuration. While showing honest service wear throughout, this example presents very well and benefits from being accompanied by a dated frog and troddel, making it an appealing and complete package.

Historical Note

The German Model 98/05 bayonet was introduced prior to the First World War as a heavy-duty fighting and utility bayonet for infantry troops. Early examples featured the distinctive high ears crossguard, intended to protect the rifle muzzle. As wartime experience grew, many bayonets were later modified or simplified, making original high ears examples increasingly sought after by collectors. The 98/05 saw extensive frontline service throughout the Great War and remains one of the most recognisable German bayonets of the period.

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