German, WW1, Trench Knife by Gottlieb Hammesfahr, with Original Scabbard

*German, WW1, Trench Knife by Gottlieb Hammesfahr, with Original Scabbard*

An original First World War German trench knife, manufactured by Gottlieb Hammesfahr of Solingen-Foche, complete with its wartime scabbard and belt loop. The knife measures 27.9cm overall, with a 15.2cm spear-point blade. One ricasso is crisply stamped “GOTTLIEB HAMMESFAHR, SOLINGEN-FOCHE”, while the reverse bears a small crowned inspection stamp. The hilt is fitted with ribbed wooden grips, secured by steel rivets, with a steel crossguard and pommel plate.

The knife is housed in its correct black-painted steel scabbard, retaining its riveted leather belt loop and strap. The press-stud fastener is period-marked “AUBÖCK”, a German-Austrian firm supplying snaps and fittings for military equipment during the Great War. Surviving examples with their original, maker-marked studs are particularly desirable to collectors, as many straps were broken or replaced after service.

Historical Note:
Trench knives were issued to German infantry for close-quarters fighting during the Great War, especially in the confined conditions of trench raids and hand-to-hand encounters. Solingen firms such as Hammesfahr were among the principal suppliers, producing durable combat knives that doubled as utility tools. Complete examples retaining both their maker’s blade mark and original scabbard fittings are now increasingly scarce and sought after.

*Condition*
The blade remains in very good condition with only light age marks and no modern polishing, retaining clear maker’s and inspection stamps. Crossguard and pommel plate show honest patina and minor oxidation. Wooden grips are secure, with handling wear but no cracks or losses. The scabbard retains most of its black finish, with age-related scuffs and scratches consistent with service use. The leather belt loop remains intact though aged, with rivets sound and the AUBÖCK-marked press-stud still present and functional. Overall, a well-preserved, complete and untouched example of a German WW1 fighting knife. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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