Red Cross Hewer w/ Scabbard & Frog – 1940

Product Description:  A finely preserved Red Cross Hewer with Frog – 1940, presented in excellent+ to excellent++ condition and displaying a pleasing, consistent patina across all components. The steel blade exhibits light surface wear while retaining visible cross-graining, indicative of careful preservation and limited handling.

The hilt is fitted with black Bakelite grip plates, both remaining fully intact and free from cracks or chips. Metal grip fittings retain an attractive luster with only a light, even patina, and the handle remains notably tight with no evidence of looseness.

The scabbard presents equally well, finished in its original glossy black enamel which now shows light, honest wear and scattered areas of paint loss primarily along the sides. The metal fittings remain undamaged and retain both original throat screws. Accompanying the piece is its original leather frog, complete with intact stitching and a smooth surface displaying only localized color loss. The reverse of the frog is clearly stamped “Carl Busse Mainz 1940” in a centered marking.

Altogether, the Red Cross Hewer with Frog – 1940 represents a well-preserved and highly collectible example, its balanced wear and harmonious patina reflecting both authenticity and careful long-term preservation.

Historical Description: The German Red Cross (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz, DRK) was given organizational status by the Nazi Party in 1938. As with all official organizations, it fell under the auspices of the NSDAP; the DRK fell under the German Ministry of the Interior.  In 1938, a special and unique edged weapon, the “Hauer für Mannschaften” (known to collectors as the Red Cross EM Hewer) was introduced for enlisted personnel of the DRK. It was a blunt-pointed tool, with one cutting edge, and one saw edge on the blade spine. It was intended not only as a dress dagger for ceremonial and formal wear, but as a practical knife for preparing splints, casts and bandages. The purpose of the blunt tip was to avoid violating Geneva Convention prohibitions against medical staff carrying offensive weapons. Unlike most German blades intended for dress purposes, the Red Cross EM Hewer was not a private purchase item but was issued from unit stocks as needed. Officers in the DRK wore a different dagger. Manufacture of the enlisted hewer ceased in 1940.

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