*German, WW2, K98 Bayonet (M1884/98 3rd pattern), Frog & Scabbard with Heer NCO Troddel, Alex Coppel “fnj”, Matching Numbers, Dated 1940*
An excellent, highly collectible German K98 combat bayonet, complete with steel scabbard and period troddel. This example is particularly desirable as both bayonet and scabbard are matching serial numbered “4358”, a rare feature adding significant collector value. Marked “fnj” on the ricasso — the wartime code for Alex Coppel (Alcoso), Solingen — and “40” stamped on the spine of the blade, denoting the year of manufacture: 1940. There are two waffemants discernible on the pommel and one on the ball finial of the scabbard. The handle has a straight pommel of simplified design, which has a cloverleaf-shaped groove with a split-nut locking knob. The blade is blued and fullered. This is a great example of the knife bayonet used with the 8 mm. Mauser Kar 98k, the Seitengewehr (sidearm) M1884/98 Third Pattern. This bayonet is fitted with late-war plastic grips, secured by two polished rivets.
Blade measures approx. 25cm, overall length 38.5cm. This example is complete with its leather frog, allowing the bayonet to be worn on a belt in the field as originally issued. Fitted with a correct period German Heer NCO troddel in silver and orange, denoting 5th company designation of an infantry battalion. The troddel’s colours indicate assignment to a frontline rifle company (red - 4th or orange -5th), which formed the core combat element within an infantry regiment.
Historical Note:
The K98 bayonet, officially adopted by the Wehrmacht in 1934, was based on the Model 1884/98 (second type) introduced during WWI with the 8mm Mauser Gewehr 98 rifle. The design, made from a single piece integrating pommel, tang, and blade, was secured by two rivets. The scabbard’s sheet metal flame arrestor, with two waste evacuation holes, prevented heat damage when used on the shortened barrel of the K98k rifle. The robust bayonet mounting bar eliminated the need for a muzzle ring, reducing vibration and improving rifle accuracy. The final M1884/98 Type III variant incorporated these design improvements and could be equipped with either wooden or plastic grips — as seen on this example.
*Condition*
In good combat-used condition. The blade retains much original finish with a strong edge and point. Plastic grips remain secure and free from cracks. The scabbard shows age-related patina and surface marks but fits the bayonet snugly. The leather frog shows age-related wear and surface creasing but remains strong and fully functional. The troddel shows some wear and slight toning to the silver cord, but remains complete and securely attached. Waffenamt stamps remain visible. A highly desirable, fully matched-number example representing the engineering refinement and material adaptations of wartime German infantry weapons. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
JAQAHC_2691130525
