Germany, Ordnungspolizei. A Schutzpolizei Dress Bayonet, Long Version with NSKOV Insignia, by Alcoso

(Schutzpolizei Bajonett). An unusual and well-preserved Schutzpolizei dress bayonet, measuring 47.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 33.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the tip and lower edge. A wide fuller runs the majority of the length of the upper edge of each side of the blade. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “ALEXANDER COPPEL, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the company’s classic scale logo, with an additional standard logo visible on the obverse ricasso. An additional letter “K” is stamped onto the spine, adjacent to a police property mark. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy crossguard which features a hooked quillon, decorated with raised oak leaves, and pommel taking the form of a double-sided eagle’s head. The reverse of the quillon is stamped with a mark of “S.E.I. 287” indicating issue to Schutzpolizei personnel. A hollow insertion slot set into the pommel retains a functional push-button spring release. Two pieces of polished staghorn compose the handle grip, and are fixed in place with dual aluminum rivets. Inset into the obverse of the handle grip is a silvered National Socialist War Victims Care (NSKOV) insignia, likely indicating that the owner was a member or supporter of the organization. Accompanying the bayonet is its original scabbard, constructed of a blackened leather shaft. Scalloped aluminum alloy fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with a downward-pointing hook emanating from the latter for the accommodation of a frog. The former is included, and constructed of multiple panels of blackened leather which are stitched and riveted into a loop for belt suspension. A functional catch situated within the throat firmly holds the bayonet in place during storage. Notably the reverse of the throat fixture is stamped with a code of “S.E.I. 287”, indicating a matching set. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and loss of nickel plating to the blade, some scratching of the hilt and scabbard fixtures, friction which renders full insertion of the bayonet into the scabbard impossible, and fatigue of the leather elements. This matching and unusual example featuring an owner modification remains in a better than very fine condition.