German WWI, Austrian 1895 Bayonet, Ernst Busch 1917
This item is listed for historical interest only. It was listed on our site previously but has been sold and is no longer available for purchase.
Sold for: $175.00

Original era manufacture. An Austrian pattern 1895 bayonet, but with German proof marks on the spine and pommel. Made by Ernst Busch in Solingen, crown proof on the pommel, and on the spine Crown W 17. One online source reports these as having been produced to equip German troops armed with the 1895 Austrian Mannlicher rifle, while serving on the Italian Front. John Walter in his book, "The German Bayonet" (1976) repeats this claim. More current information alludes to the fact that these may have found their way into the Royal Bulgarian army postwar. Certainly an interesting bayonet and well worth further research. Overall condition of the bayonet is quite sound with an even steel patina finish, with a bright finished blade. Original finish wooden grips, no cracks or chips, but with typical service and handling denting. Service denting to the scabbard with Czech proofs on the frog stud