M1918 Au Lion Trench Knife w/ Scabbard

Product Description: An evocative M1918 Au Lion Trench Knife with Scabbard, presented as a complete and character-rich example, exhibiting the unmistakable “combat-used” aesthetic sought by collectors. The blade displays a consistent, even patina throughout, complemented by minor spotting and runner marks that speak to its period use, while retaining a sharply struck and clearly legible “Au Lion” maker’s mark at the ricasso.

The brass knuckle-duster grip bears an attractive, untouched patina, with the deeply cast “U.S. 1918” marking remaining crisp and well-defined. The knife is accompanied by its correct French fighting knife scabbard, which presents with a pleasing, uniform aged finish and light speckling of surface corrosion. Notably, the scabbard retains both of its original belt attachment posts, enhancing its completeness and desirability.

Overall, the piece exhibits honest wear consistent with age, yet remains exceptionally well-preserved, with strong visual appeal. A scarce and increasingly difficult-to-source M1918 Au Lion Trench Knife with Scabbard, offered here in excellent condition and with outstanding display presence.

Historical Description: The first official U.S. trench knife adopted for service issue was the U.S. M1917 trench knife. It was designed by Henry Disston & Sons and based off examples of trench knives that were in service with the French Army at that time. The M1917 featured a triangular stiletto blade, wooden grip, metal knuckle guard, and a rounded pommel. The M1917 proved unsatisfactory in service, and a slightly improved version, the M1918, was adopted within months. Despite this, the M1918 is almost identical to the M1917, differing primarily in the construction and appearance of the knuckle guard. Usable only as stabbing weapons, the M1917 and M1918 frequently suffered broken blades. Their limited utility and general unpopularity caused the AEF to empanel a testing board in 1918, to test various trench knives and select a replacement.

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