Desirable Original German WWII Matching k98 Bayonet Dated 1942 By Staatliche Waffenfabrik (jwh)
This is an original German K98 bayonet, produced by the French contractor Manufacture d'armes de Châtellerault under German occupation and marked with the wartime designation “Staatliche Waffenfabrik.” Located in Châtellerault, France, this facility was a significant supplier to the German Wehrmacht, manufacturing K98 bayonets between 1941 and 1944.
Both the bayonet and scabbard retain matching serial numbers, making this a desirable and complete example for collectors.
Blade:The blade retains a good portion of its original dark wartime blued finish with signs of age toning. One side of the ricasso (the top of the blade directly below the grip and hilt) is clearly maker stamped “jwh”; the other side bears the serial number "576 g" and this matches the scabbard, too; the date of manufacture "42" is stamped on the side of the blade.
Handle:The handle features a brown Bakelite grips with some slight fading, but in very good condition, showing tight fit with no cracks or repairs, secured by the correct blued screws. The pommel and crossguard retain their dark finish, with a functional locking button and release mechanism.Scabbard:The scabbard is serial numbered “576,” matching the bayonet. It is basically bare metal with surface oxidation throughout, but does have minor dent at the bottom, but no structural damage, maintaining a solid form and proper fit.
Frog:
The bayonet is accompanied by its original leather frog, that has a handle cross strap and is faintly RB Numbered on the reverse. The leather shows age and wear from storage. As always, aged leather should be handled with care to preserve its integrity. Overall the frog is in very good condition and could use some conditioner or just left alone.Condition:
While maybe not the most visually appealing example due to oxidation and bluing missing on the scabbard, this is a solid, honest matching set made by a desirable French contractor Staatliche Waffenfabrik. 
