Original Imperial German Pre-WWI Bavarian Model 1892 Artillery Lion Head Short Sword by Alexander Coppel with Scabbard

Original Item. Only One Available. This is a gorgeous Pre-WWI Model 1892 Bavarian Artillery lion’s head short sword. The sword actually reflects the German talent for economical use of resources, since the blade of the sword is that of a Model 1869 Werder bayonet that was re-fitted with a cast lion head hilt. The blade has a single proof mark on the spine with a Crown over G. 

The ricasso of the blade bears the scales and the “A.C.” trademark of the Alexander Coppel firm. This company made large amounts of export bayonets during the 19th century, and also manufactured bayonets for many years and up through WWII under the name Alcoso. Sadly, as the Coppel family was Jewish, they saw their company stolen from them and "Aryanized" during WWII by the NSDAP. For more information please see J. Anthony Carter’s work GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS.

The sword has a number of gray spots and areas, but it is without any heavy chips. There is some rusting but nothing too serious. The leather blade washer is gone.

The original brass-mounted leather scabbard is retained but the leather is heavily stiffened with the stitching almost entirely gone. It is difficult to remove the sword from the scabbard so exercise caution. The drag is stamped with a voided unit marking, 1.A.F. / E.1. 61..

A desirable Bavarian sword, ready for further research and display.

Specifications:
Overall length: 23 3/4”
Blade length: 18 1/4”
Scabbard length: 19”