Imperial German, M1871/84 Bayonet converted to a "Grabenmesser” (trench knife) Knife/ Dagger

*Imperial German, M1871/84 Bayonet converted to a "Grabenmesser” (trench knife) Knife/ Dagger*

Blade measures 24.9cm, 36.7cm overall

Knife Bayonet Blade M1871/84 marked on spine "Crown" over "W" over "88" over "Fraktur proofmark".

This is a very rare and exciting piece of history. Originally, this blade began its existence as a bayonet blade designed for the 11 mm rifle. The markings on the spine indicate that it was made during the reign of Wilhelm I from 1861 to 1888. The M1871/84 bayonet was specifically created for the Mauser M1871/84 repeating rifle, and marked the introduction of the first widely-issued knife bayonet in a major army. Although the M1871/84 rifle was quickly replaced by the M1888 Commission Rifle, limiting the use of the M1871/84 bayonet in the German Army, it still found application with rear area troops, fitting the M1888 despite being considered obsolete. It is possible that excess blades were also converted into daggers. This dagger, clearly has a bayonet history, but lacks the bayonet fittings, has no exposed tang or rivets, and a grip crafted from a single piece of wood but but retains the muzzle ring. So is this a bayonet converted to a "Grabenmesser” (trench knife)?

*Condition*

The blade is in very good condition with no pitting or nicks but some discoloration. The crosspiece and pommel are both rusted on one side and less on the other. The join between the pommel and wood grip is slightly awkward and it looks like wood stain residue at either end of the grip. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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