German, WWII, K98 Bayonet (Seitengewehr 84/98 III) – ‘cof 1943’ (Carl Eickhorn), Scabbard ‘J.Sch. 1938’, with Original Leather Frog

*German, WWII, K98 Bayonet (Seitengewehr 84/98 III) – ‘cof 1943’ (Carl Eickhorn), Scabbard ‘J.Sch. 1938’, with Original Leather Frog*

Overall Length: approx. 38 cm
Blade Length: approx. 24.7 cm

This is an original German Seitengewehr 84/98 III bayonet, designed for use with the Karabiner 98k rifle. The blade is stamped “cof 43”, indicating manufacture by Carl Eickhorn, Solingen in 1943. The reverse ricasso bears the serial number “8265 o”. The pommel features two Waffenamt inspection marks — likely WaA516 or WaA616, consistent with Eickhorn wartime production.

The bayonet has:
A blued, fullered blade, now showing age-related patina and wear.
Straight pommel and steel crossguard with a working push-button release.
Wooden grip scales secured with two screws.
Clamshell slot with internal T-slot catch, standard for K98 bayonets.

The scabbard is a genuine earlier example, marked “9234 o” and on the reverse “J.Sch. 1938”, standing for Jetter & Scheerer, a known pre-war contractor. Though not matching the bayonet serial, it is a correct type pairing.

Included is the original black leather frog, with full stitching and rivets intact. Though heavily worn, it remains structurally sound. The reverse bears a faint stamp, now largely illegible due to surface wear.

Historical Background:
The S84/98 III bayonet was the final wartime evolution of the WWI-era 84/98 pattern. These bayonets omitted the muzzle ring for improved barrel harmonics and faster manufacture. Carl Eickhorn, one of Germany's best-known edged weapon producers, used the wartime code “cof” from 1940 onwards. The reuse of earlier scabbards like this 1938-dated example was common practice during the war.

*Condition*
The blade is in good overall condition, showing signs of wear consistent with age and service use. There is notable pitting along the spine and a dulling of the original blued finish to a grey patina. The wooden grip scales remain intact and securely fastened, with only minor surface wear. The press-stud release mechanism is fully functional. The scabbard exhibits similar wear, with areas of surface oxidation but no major dents or structural issues. The original leather frog is complete, with all rivets and stitching intact; the maker’s stamp is faint and difficult to decipher. Please refer to photographs as part of the condition report.

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