Short KS98 Etched Bayonet – Paul Seilheimer

This Item

An exceptional, highly collectible, and historically unique Short Pattern KS98 Dress Bayonet (Kurzes Seitengewehr 98) from the World War II era. This premium piece was manufactured by the prestigious and rarely encountered Solingen master bladesmith Paul Seilheimer, bearing the distinct early maker mark of a reversed triangle with a sword through it, flanked by the initials "P" and "S". With a total length of 32 cm (excluding the scabbard), this shorter variant was traditionally favored by non-commissioned officers, artillerymen, or motorized units. It remains in beautiful, untouched condition, making it a fantastic addition to any advanced militaria collection. Important Collector's Note. What elevates this specific piece to a true advanced collector's item is the combination of an incredibly scarce maker (Paul Seilheimer) and a highly desirable, period-correct factory anomaly. Unlike mass-produced pieces, this bayonet showcases a unique production-era character that serves as a bulletproof guarantee of its pre-1945 Solingen authenticity. The Blade & Period Etching The blade features a spectacular, mirror-like factory polish and terminates in a tip that remains as sharp as a needle. The obverse side boasts a deeply detailed, period-authentic acid-etched commemoration text. Starting from the tip, the motif features: A crisp swastika surrounded by a wreath. A beautiful, classic section of oak leaves decoration. Followed by the elegant gothic text: "An meine Dienstzeit". Note on Factory Production: True to early Paul Seilheimer factory craftsmanship, the etching template was manually aligned during production. This caused the text to horizontally overlap slightly into the fuller (blood groove). This charming, period-correct factory irregularity is highly sought after by advanced collectors. It features the exact consistent matte "frosting" and aged patina within the deeper parts of the groove as the flat part of the blade, proving it is 100% original handwork from Solingen and completely free from modern post-war laser fakes. Hilt, Scabbard & Frog. Grip: Beautiful black checkered Bakelite grip plates. In pristine condition with absolutely no chips, cracks, or fractures. Mechanism: The top release button (bayonet lock) is fully functional and spring-loaded, operating flawlessly. Scabbard: The original scabbard retains its beautiful factory-applied black paint finish, showing some honest, light period wear and carrying traces as to be expected from a genuine service piece. The bayonet fits like a glove into the scabbard. Frog: Complete with its original, beautifully preserved patent leather frog. The leather is sturdy, correctly lacquered, and matches the bayonet perfectly. Specifications. Manufacturer: Paul Seilheimer, Solingen (Rare Early Triangle & Sword Logo) Model: Kurzes Seitengewehr 98 (Short Pattern)/ Total Length: 32 cm (without scabbard). Condition: Excellent, beautifully used period condition with unique factory variation. Key Features: Rare maker mark, unique factory-etched blade error (wreath/swastika & oak leaves overlapping the fuller), intact Bakelite grips, original painted scabbard, and lacquered leather frog.