1936 Motto HJ Knife – WKC

Product Description: This outstanding 1936 Motto HJ Knife is a choice piece, in incredible condition. The blade is beautiful, with nice shine and a full “Blut und Ehre” motto on the obverse. There are some typical light scratches and runner marks, and one small nick out of the cutting edge. The reverse of the blade is marked on the ricasso with the maker mark of the firm of WKC as well as the stamped early date 1936, the round RZM emblem, and the WKC maker code “M7/42.” The original leather buffer pad on the blade is intact. The handle is gorgeous. The plated metalwork shows wonderful luster, with some small marks and losses to the plating. The Bakelite grips are undamaged and show only slight wear. The Hitlerjugend diamond emblem has pristine enamel. This 1936 Motto HJ Knife is complete with its original scabbard. The scabbard is a rare type, with an anodized finish instead of the black paint typically encountered. About 90 percent of the original factory applied anodized finish remains intact. The leather on the scabbard is complete and intact, with a smooth surface and functional retaining strap with snap. The condition of this stunning Hitler Youth knife is a strong excellent plus, bordering on near mint. It would be tough to find a nicer example.

Historical Description: The Hitler Youth Knife (Hitlerjugend Fahrtenmesser) was introduced in the summer of 1933, shortly after the Nazi seizure of power in Germany. It was produced by a multitude of manufacturers and could be purchased from authorized shops for a price of 4 Reichsmarks. It was used not only as a dress sidearm, but as a functional camping tool, and these were commonly sharpened by their original owners. The earliest examples bore the motto of the Hitler Youth, “Blut und Ehre!” (Blood and Honor), etched on the blade. The blades on these early knives were marked with commercial manufacturer logos. They had nickel silver handles, and anodized metal scabbards. The use of the etched motto was discontinued in August 1938. Later HJ knives had nickel plated steel handles, painted scabbards, and the maker logos were replaced with an RZM code along with the year of manufacture. There are also transitional types that still have the etched motto but have dates on the blade ricasso. Manufacture of these knives is believed to have ceased around 1942. All HJ knives have the diamond emblem of the Hitler Youth on the handle.

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com