Condition: Excellent
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Product Description: This Hitler Youth HJ Knife is a fine example of the iconic youth organization’s standard-issue blade, featuring the classic “Blut und Ehre!” (Blood and Honor!) motto etched on the obverse. The dagger shows no maker’s mark, which is characteristic of some war period productions knives.
The blade remains in very good condition, exhibiting only minor signs of age and use, with the motto still crisp and legible. The grip plates are made of black checkered bakelite, firmly secured with nickel rivets, and display the Hitler Youth diamond insignia inset into the obverse side, which retains vibrant red and white enamel with a slight age-appropriate patina.
The steel scabbard retains much of its original black paint, with some expected wear from use. The leather hanger remains attached and is marked, though the stamp is partially faded, adding a touch of authenticity and history to this piece. The metal fittings on the scabbard show light patina but are free from major dents or damage.
This dagger represents a well-preserved, authentic example of Hitler Youth memorabilia, perfect for collectors seeking a piece with both historical value and original condition.
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.
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