Original Imperial German WWI Model 1889 Prussian Infantry Officer Sword with Scabbard by Carl Eickhorn

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great condition Imperial German Model 1889 Infantry Officer sword and scabbard, by the legendary Solingen-based firm of Carl Eickhorn. The hilt is a gilded brass D shape fold away guard with the Imperial German eagle of Kaiser Wilhelm II. The grip is brass wire bound over sharkskin with a brass cypher of the Kaiser in the center. The wire has come a bit loose however. This model of sword would often have a leather fore finger loop on the inside of the guard, and this example still retains that loop!

The nickel plated straight blade is in very good condition and has a double fuller on each side and is 34⅛” from the spear point to the hilt. The nickel plate is retained very well. Overall length of the sword is 40⅛”.

The reverse ricasso is stamped with the Carl Eickhorn "Two Squirrel" trademark over C.E., for manufacture by the legendary firm of Carl Eickhorn, located in Solingen, the "City of Blades" in Western Germany. Per J. Anthony Carter's book GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS, this specific version of the mark was used on swords, "walking out" bayonets, and other similar items after 1906. This is exactly the mark that should be on a WWI Blade.

This company was founded in 1865 by Carl Eickhorn, and is arguably the most famous of all Solingen makers. Not only could the family trace their history back 500 years, but they could also demonstrate involvement in the hardening and grinding industries for the same period. Truly the nobility of Solingen Edged weapon dynasties. Eickhorn edged weapons are the most desirable of all makers. 

The steel scabbard has a single hanging ring, as the second fitting was for a hook on the hanger. It has the standard black enamel finish, which has worn off in some areas, and the underlying steel has oxidized. The scabbard has some moderate denting but nothing that hinders sheathing.

Overall condition is very good. Ready to display!

Dimensions:
Blade length: 34 1/8”
Blade Style: Single Edge with Double Fullers
Overall length: 40 1/8”
Handguard: 4 1/2”W x 4 1/2”L
Scabbard length: 35 1/8”