WW2 German K98 Bayonet – Coppel G.m.b.H. 1940 – Matching Numbers with 1940-Dated Luftwaffe Frog – Near Mint Blade

SKU: 0401M

Added by : Mark Raynsford

Description

A superb World War 2 German K98 bayonet produced by Coppel G.m.b.H. and dated 1940, complete with its original matching scabbard and a 1940-dated frog bearing faint LBA markings. This is a particularly attractive example with an excellent blade and strong wartime bluing throughout.

Blade
The blade is outstanding and very close to mint condition. The blade remains unsharpened, with approximately 98% of the original bluing remaining. The front of the blade carries the serial number 5241, while the spine is clearly dated 40, confirming 1940 production. The point remains strong, though not quite as needle sharp as some examples encountered. Overall, this is a magnificent blade that would be difficult to upgrade.

Hilt & Grips
The hilt retains an excellent amount of original bluing. The dark bakelite grips are in superb condition and remain secured by their original screw bolts. The flash guard shows no indentations and retains strong bluing. The rifle retaining button functions correctly. The hilt displays the usual two Waffenamt inspection stamps, including one on the retaining button itself. These stamps are particularly clear and easy to read, which is not always the case on K98 bayonets.

Scabbard
The scabbard retains a good amount of original bluing and remains matching to the blade with the serial number 5241 stamped on the throat. On the reverse of the scabbard the maker Coppel G.m.b.H. and the date 1940 are present. There is a dent to one side of the scabbard which is largely covered by the frog when fitted. Toward the lower section near the scabbard ball there is another dent along with some surface scratches above it. These are clearly shown in the photographs. The scabbard ball itself bears a clear Waffenamt inspection stamp. The blade fits the scabbard perfectly with a snug, correct fit.

Frog
An excellent original 1940-dated leather frog accompanies the bayonet. The leather remains strong with good shape and structure, and the four original rivets are present. The stitching remains intact and tight throughout. There is a split above the area where the scabbard lug fits, though it has not gone all the way through. For this reason it would be advisable to leave the frog on the scabbard to prevent further stress. The rear of the frog shows a partially worn maker’s stamp along with the date 1940 and the marking LBA, indicating issue through Luftwaffe supply channels (Luftwaffe Bekleidungsamt), although these markings are very faint and hard to read. A stamped number 4 is also present near the lower rear.

Overall
A very impressive and highly collectible matching numbers 1940 Coppel K98 bayonet with strong original finish, clear inspection marks, and an original 1940 dated frog. The blade condition in particular is exceptional.

Historical Note
The S84/98 III pattern bayonet was the standard bayonet issued to the German Wehrmacht for use with the Karabiner 98k rifle during World War 2. Manufactured in Solingen by Coppel G.m.b.H., these bayonets were produced in large numbers but truly high-condition examples with matching components and period frogs have become increasingly difficult to find today.


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£340.00