Model 1871 Prussian Bayonet

[Peter B]

Don't have this yet but am intrigued by the inscription. I'll take higher quality pictures when I get it but any ideas? Looks like a name, maybe a rank, maybe a regiment and definitely a date of 1892. Or might just be a dedication of some sort?

Any help appreciated.

Peter

 

[SkipperJohn]

I have had several of these. Some were unmarked and some were marked to a unit. I have never seen this type of engraving, in script, on one of these before. Earlier pieces commonly had script engraving, but these were usually block stamped.
Very unique! Nice find.

John

 

[Peter B]

Thanks John. I thought so as well.

Peter

 

[Peter B]

Okay so I have the bayonet now and am attempting to read the engraving. It is almost the same on both the scabbard and handle but not quite. Some of it is clearer than other parts.

The one word that looks like Hand** on one side looks likes slightly different on the other side. The text in front of the 1892 date is maybe "2 C vs 16"? Unit maybe?

I am having trouble with the German style of writing as well.

Again, any help appreciated. Took multiple pictures and changed on to B&W to see if that helps.

Peter

 

[Peter B]

From Sandy:

The only thing I can say about it is, that I think the same text was carved on both sides (?except for this "OK"? and „1892“).
For me I read this (but as I said, it makes absolutely no sense for me):
1st Side:
OK. Handiv. Johs. Goos
2. C. v. M.
2nd Side:
Oe_s or Oc_s (s can also be z) Handiv.
Johs. Goos
2 C. v. M. 1892

Sorry that I couldn‘t help.
Best wishes and stay healthy,
Sandy

 

[Peter B]

My reply:

Thanks Sandy. It is very strange and yes it has almost the same text on both sides as you say. Yet it is different. Almost like someone if paying a joke on us from over 100 years ago!

Is Goos a German name? Could it maybe be a short version of Johann Goos?

Could the date maybe be 26 Mai 1892? Maybe when the soldier retired from the military?

Could the OK be for Oberkomando Handiv? (Honover Division)?

The mystery continues?

 

[CLOVIS 57]

Hello,

This bayonet is in fact a "Seitengewehr" of pageantry, or exit. Private purchase, it is lighter than the regulatory model. In fact it is not a bayonet, because the button and the anchoring spring are fictitious, there is no rail on the back of the handle to slide the rifle's mouthpiece nipple there. This bladed weapon is not regulatory and never has regimental markings or official reception point.
The blade of these bayonets are often / always engraved, but the engraving is shallow and fades over the cleaning ... This is the case here, but by observing well we still see remains of engraving.
This writing is nominative, made by its owner.

 

[Peter B]

Thanks Clovis. Very interesting.

Peter

 

[CLOVIS 57]

The regulatory (army property) to the Eigentum. (private purchase)
Another difference: The guard in S, is steel on the M71 while it is in nickel silver on the "private".(but also in nickel-plated steel or brass)

 

[Peter B]

Thanks again Clovis. This is great information for the "edged weapons" collectors on here.

Looks like the guard on mine is nickel plated steel.

Cheers.

Peter