*WW2 German saw-tooth Hewer by Ges Geschutz, with Scabbard and Black Leather Frog*
WWII German saw-tooth Hewer. Ges Geschutz maker stamp to serrated blade. Black scabbard and black leather frog, stamped H. 26.5cm Blade. 40cm Long.
The DRK Hewer was authorised for daily wear in February 1938. The Hewer was discontinued in 1940.
In December 1939, Hitler conferred a new legal status on the Red Cross by recognising it as a national organisation with some independence from Geneva. Although the members, both male and female, were on a non-salaried basis, a full-time cadre of uniformed salaried leaders supervised them. The DRK incorporated the omnipresent eagle and swastika with the International Red Cross symbol in the design of their own distinctive insignia.
It was 40 cm long and authorised for daily wear by Red Cross NCO’s and subordinates ranking from Helfer to Haupthelfer. The Pommel had a flattened top and the cross guard had an oval space into which a Red Cross insignia was fixed. The insignia was an eagle with a swastika on its breast and spread wings. At the eagle’s feet was the International symbol of the Red Cross, a cross with equal extensions based upon points of the compass. The hilts are made of a white metal base with a thin nickel plating of about 2 microns. The grips were made from two pieces of black Bakelite secured with 2 screws. The blade was wide with a saw tooth edge on one side that was used for removing plaster casts and preparing splints. The tip of the blade was squared off to conform to the Geneva Convention of medical staff not carrying offensive weapons. The scabbard was black, enameled and fitted with nickel platted chape and locket. The Hewer was carried in a leather frog and secured by a clip on the scabbard.
*Condition*
Black backlite grip has no chips or cracks. Original scabbard paint and very good blade with some pitting. Scabbard has lost some of its black paint which is to be expected given its age and usage. Please see photographs as part of condition report.
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