Old L-O-N-G Bayonet Question

[Scott C.]

Someone told me this is a Model 1898 Mauser bayonet. Due to it's condition I find it hard to believe it's circa 1898. The blade is 21 inches long (!), has no markings whatsoever, and the scabbard is a leather-covered hard shell held by what looks like a "staple" at the reverse upper and lower fitting.

Can anyone provide a history of this bayonet? I know it's a dress bayonet versus a combat piece, but what was the circa of use? Was something unique to certain units?

Thanks!

Herc

[Scott C.]

Close up. It still has the red felt blade washer and slot plug...

[Scott C.]

Back side of scabbard.Thanks for the help!

[CMSgt]

1898 Bayonet

Your's is a M1898 n.A Prussian Seitengewehr (Bayonet). I have attached a picture of it being worn. That's all I can help you with, I have one also and mine is marked "50" on the back of the scabboard under the staple. This information and picture I got from Klaus Lubbe's book "German Sidearms and Bayonets 1740 - 1945".

[sb98]

Herc,

Where do you come up with these nice bayonets? This one is indeed a private purchase dress version M98. I'd love to have it my collection, it looks like a textbook example. Being a private purchase it's not to unusual that it doesn't have any marks. The M98 was exported to some South American countries but I don't see any reason to think this wasn't used in Germany. They were worn up to a during WWI, being replaced mostly by the 98/05 butcher blade for service and the KS98 dress bayonet, like the saw-back you posted. I don't think any were worn after the war.

[Scott C.]

Gents,

Thanks for the info and GREAT photo! I'd like to find a frog and fringe knot for it, so if anyone out there has a knot that would be a period match for this bayo, please PM me.

I picked up this piece at a small militaria/gun show in Little Rock many many years ago. The beautiful condition and length of the blade captured my attention (and $).

Thanks again.

Herc