Original WWII Kriegsmarine single-sheave rigging block, elm cheeks with a forged swivel iron loop and steel sheave. The naval eagle over “M” denoting Marineabnahmestempel (naval acceptance stamp) is stamped on both sides of the wood. The base of each cheek is additionally stamped “E 5”—a size/pattern/inspector code seen on KM blocks.
The forged swivel loop is struck “22 11 39”: interpreted as 22 mm (possible loop/shackle reference) and a date code of November 1939. The loop itself measures approximately 6.4 cm wide (pin to pin) and 9.4 cm tall, with full rotation. The sheave turns freely.
Approx Measurements: wood body 16 × 12.4 × 5 cm; 25 cm overall including the loop.
Historical Note:
Blocks of this pattern were standard naval stores aboard Kriegsmarine warships and auxiliaries for hoisting and deck handling. Service-accepted items received the eagle-over-“M” property/acceptance mark. The marking “11 39” follows the common German military practice of stamping equipment with a month–year date code, supporting its interpretation as November 1939 manufacture rather than a serial number. A 1939 date places this example right at the start of WWII—an appealing, early-war piece of German naval equipment.
*Condition*
Good, honest condition with untouched patina. Elm cheeks show expected handling marks, small age cracks and wear; stamps remain legible on both sides. Ironwork with even oxidation, structurally sound; numerals on the loop are crisp. Sheave runs smoothly. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
