Short KS/98 Bayonet w/Single-Etched Blade w/Frog. Gustav Sptizer Solingen, prancing lion within circle TM. An example of this etch SCARCE pattern appears on page 190, of German Etched Dress Bayonets 1933-1945 by Wayne H. Techet as Gustav Spitzer Neutral motif. As stated in the above reference, "this {Spitzer pattern} has possibly the "busiest" motif produced during the Third Reich!" Nickel-plate, over gray metal, hilt fittings show uniform surface wear to pommel, spine, and crossguard with only traces of the plating remaining adjacent to the pommel lug button and on lower spine. Pommel slot is complete with red felt plug. Black bakelite grip plates are perfect with no cracks or chips. Plated blade measuring 20cm in length grades EX+/EX++ showing light surface wear/runner marks, but no lifting or nicks to cutting edge. Obverse blade features a 5 ½" long frosted etch panel with the standard remembrance of service time inscription in raised gothic letters beneath a raised open-winged eagle/swastika surrounded by a oak leaves. The etched panel retains 100% of the background frosting and the blade is complete with dark brown leather blade buffer pad. Steel scabbard retains approximately 98% of the original black enamel showing only a few nicks to paint and one faint surface depression to lower reverse. Black leather, double stitched bayonet frog grades EX showing age and crazing to patent leather finish. Nice Spitzer example with SCARCE etch motif. Exc./Exc+ (23460) $895.