Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice Imperial German Model 1889 Infantry Officer sword and scabbard, by the legendary Solingen-based firm of Carl Eickhorn. The hilt is a gilded brass basket guard with the Imperial German eagle of Kaiser Wilhelm II on the top. The grip is brass wire bound over black celluloid with a brass cypher of the Kaiser in the center. The celluloid is still mostly intact, though the wire wrapping has become loose, and the ferrule has separated from the grip. This model of sword would often have a leather fore finger loop on the inside of the guard, as this example does, though it is in delicate condition. Overall the guard is a bit bent, and the hilt is slightly loose on the tang.

The nickel plated straight blade is in good condition and has a double fuller on each side and is 30 3/4 inches from the spear point to the hilt. The nickel plate is retained very well, however unfortunately some person, not understanding that this is a dress blade, decided to sharpen the edge, which is a shame. These were never intended for actual use. Overall length of the sword is 35 1/2 inches. A white buff felt washer is fitted to the blade where it meets the guard. 

The reverse ricasso is stamped unevenly 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 is straight with no major dents, and really looks great. It is however missing the interior throat, and both securing screws are missing, due to this it is loose in the scabbard.

Overall condition is very good and quite attractive. Ready to display!

Dimensions:
Blade length: 29 ½”
Overall length: 35 ½”
Scabbard length: 31”
Handguard: 4”x 5”