Old Sword

[Thälmannpionier]

Hello Chaps

Got this old Sword from the Flea Market.It has some markings and I'd really like to know where this sword was in use in the early days.

Unfortunetly,someone has tried to give it a "new look" with some kind of chrome finish on the blade.

It measures 56cm overall length.

Markings on the Handle are: "67" an "R" with a crown and something else I can't describe.

Markings on the Blade are : "S" or "G" and a "&" sign and on top of the Blade is a Crown with "FW" and "38"

I'd be more than happy if someone can help me out on this

Regards
Andreas

Here are the photos:

[Thälmannpionier]

handle

[Thälmannpionier]

markings

[Thälmannpionier]

1

[Thälmannpionier]

TIA

[gregM]

I have seen that "crown over R" mark before but I can not remmember where

[Tom Y]

I've never seen this particular design, but I believe it's a Faschinenmesser, a Pioner's sword designed for cutting brush, etc. The FW 38 is for Friedrich Wilhelm III and 1838, the year of manufacture. The crowned R is possibly an acceptance stamp, at least that would be the case in later times. All in all a great find

[gregM]

The crown over R might refer to where it was made. I looked at my K98
bayonet and it has a Crown over D. The bayo was made in Duisburg
Just a thought.

[Thälmannpionier]

I've never seen this particular design, but I believe it's a Faschinenmesser, a Pioner's sword designed for cutting brush, etc. The FW 38 is for Friedrich Wilhelm III and 1838, the year of manufacture. The crowned R is possibly an acceptance stamp, at least that would be the case in later times. All in all a great find

Thank you both for your help .Didn't think that the sword is so old (1838) wow!

So,100eur wasn't too much,I hope A shame that the blade is chromed.

Regards
Andreas

[Chip M]

It looks very much like a Seitengewehr (Faschinenmesser) U/M. The 1867 date would be about right and though the blade is the correct type for a U/M, it's earlier date most likely indicates that it was rehilted (recycled). These were typically issued to unmounted artillerymen

Chip

[Thälmannpionier]

It looks very much like a Seitengewehr (Faschinenmesser) U/M. The 1867 date would be about right and though the blade is the correct type for a U/M, it's earlier date most likely indicates that it was rehilted (recycled). These were typically issued to unmounted artillerymen

Chip

Thanks Chip

Was 100eur too much for this type of sword?

Regards
Andreas

[Chip M]

Andreas,

Though the chromed blade is a detraction, I would say that 100 euro is a good price. I sold a very nice, unit marked example with scabbard for $125.00 about ten years ago. To buy it back now would cost well over $200.00.

Chip

[Thälmannpionier]

Thanks alot for your help Chip

[Daniel Murphy]

Just out of curiuosity, does anyone know what was the last war these would have been used in, I have one dated in the 60's that is battle damaged. A shrapnel ball hit the handle , which is hollow, and bent the hilt and caved it in. I had always thought it was a doughboy bring back since I got it locally, but have always wondered.
Dan Murphy