Hitler Youth Knife – Unmarked

Product Description: This Hitler Youth Knife is a great example, with nice visual appeal and unique personalization. The blade is completely unmarked, and remains bright, with nice crossgraining. There is some old patina near the handle, and the original leather buffer pad is intact. The handle is beautiful, with slight patina to the original bright nickel plating on the metal. The back of the pommel is neatly engraved “Heinz 12.3.39” indicating the last name of the original owner as well as the date March 12, 1939. The personalized engraving is very nicely executed. It’s very rare to find these Hitlerjugend knives personalized like this. The Bakelite grip plates are free of chips and cracks, and the Hitler Youth diamond emblem is glossy and beautiful, with full enamel intact. The scabbard body retains most of its original factory applied paint. The belt loop is made of pebbled leather, and is intact and supple, with a functional retaining strap. This is really a nice knife overall. The condition of this Hitler Youth Knife rates as excellent.

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