Original Imperial German WWI Ersatz Bayonet, Carter Type EB 55 with Scabbard, Frog, and Knot - From Personal Collection of David Machnicki, Author of At Arm's Length Series - Very Rare
In stock
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Original Item. One-of-a-Kind. This is a very rare and sought after example of an Imperial German “Ersatz” bayonet, of the very rare Carter Type “EB 55”. Evidently not much is known regarding this rare example however period photography and anecdotal veteran accounts verify its existence. Apparently produced in a variety of blade lengths and sometimes referred to as a Cavalry experimental bayonet.
This example came to us from the collection of David F. Machnicki, the author of At Arm's Length Trench Clubs and Knives.
The use of wood for the grips gives the impression of a finely made item but, in my opinion, it was more of a weight saving device, the hilt was cast iron. Many ersatz bayonets were made with grips of solid cast iron or brass and are much heavier than those made with sheet metal grips, adding considerably to the weight the soldier has to carry. This example still retains the lovely fluted wooden inlaid grips. The 12 ¼” blade shows good service wear with peppered oxidation and a fuller on both sides near the spine. The overall length is roughly 17”.
This example is housed in the correct scabbard with some of the feldgrau paint still retained but most has worn away. It is held in a great period frog which is stamped on the back “BJ / Co. 1 J”. Attached to the frog throat is a great troddel knot with Prussian colors still in great condition without much serious fraying.
J. Anthony Carter died in 2001 but his four volume work is acknowledged as the supreme reference work on the subject most especially the Ersatz Volume (No.3) which was his great passion throughout his lifetime.
This is an outstanding example, one of the most complete Carter Type EB 55s you will ever see! Ready for further research and display.
Dimensions:
Blade length: 12 1/4”
Overall length: 17”
Scabbard length: 13"
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