German WWII Hitler Youth Dagger by G. Gräfrath-This is a transitional model that has both the maker’s name, as well as the RZM markings, which read M7/30. This is an “as found” example. This is an example without the motto. It may have had a motto at one time, but it is unreadable now. The nickel-plated fittings remain 75% intact. Please be aware that the crossguard upswing was broken off a long time ago. This was so long ago that the break has worn smooth. The black checkered grip plates and HJ enameled diamond are very good. The original black scabbard paint is a solid 80%. The blade shows sharpening to the edge which was probably done by the original owner. There is moderate darkening to the blade. The black leather belt loop and restraining strap show wear. The snap is in place, but the strap is broken, so please be sure to look closely at the photos. We are considering this in “as found” condition and pricing it to sell.
History: The Hitler Youth Knife (Hitlerjugend Fahrtenmesser) was introduced in the summer of 1933, shortly after the NSDAP seizure of power in Germany. It was produced by a multitude of manufacturers and could be purchased from authorized shops for a price of 4 Reichsmarks. It was used not only as a dress sidearm, but as a functional camping tool, and these were commonly sharpened by their original owners. The earliest examples bore the motto of the Hitler Youth, “Blut und Ehre!” (Blood and Honor), etched on the blade. The blades on these early knives were marked with commercial manufacturer logos. They had nickel silver handles, and anodized metal scabbards. The use of the etched motto was discontinued in August 1938. Later HJ knives had nickel plated steel handles, painted scabbards, and the maker logos were replaced with an RZM code along with the year of manufacture. There are also transitional types that still have the etched motto but have dates on the blade ricasso. Manufacture of these knives is believed to have ceased around 1942. All HJ knives have the diamond emblem of the Hitler Youth on the handle.
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