Restoring a bayonet

**Tmark Dc** · 06-07-2012, 08:18 PM

When my grandfather died i received a world war 2 bayonet. I was told it was german made. I can make out 2 numbers on the base of the blade, one on either side. I was wondering what the best way to restore the value of the bayonet was. I realize that there are probably alot of these out here, but anything i can do would be helpful. I was thinking like sharpening the blade, or varnishing the handle, shining the holster, etc. Im new at this so i dont know whats best to do. The blade looks pretty worn as well.

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 06-07-2012 08:18 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**zwerge** · 06-07-2012, 10:21 PM

Hi,post some pictures showing the numbers and scabbard too,in the meantime do none of the things you have mentioned as this will destroy any collector value.

**Tmark Dc** · 06-08-2012, 02:19 AM

by zwerge

Hi,post some pictures showing the numbers and scabbard too,in the meantime do none of the things you have mentioned as this will destroy any collector value.

Ahh, alright. I figured restoring it to a better condition would increase the value.

**Walkwolf** · 06-08-2012, 02:30 AM

As said, any of the treatments you were thinking of will ruin any potential value.

Best to post some photos and let the good folks here take a look at it.
There may only be wear - which is quite normal - or surface rust
which can be removed without harm.........

**Tmark Dc** · 06-08-2012, 03:10 AM

by Walkwolf

As said, any of the treatments you were thinking of will ruin any potential value.

Best to post some photos and let the good folks here take a look at it.
There may only be wear - which is quite normal - or surface rust
which can be removed without harm.........

Will do

. I only have webcam photos, is that sufficient?

**Walkwolf** · 06-08-2012, 03:14 AM

Lol, at least we'll be able to tell you what country it's from.
Quality photos from a digital camera are best,
but post what you have.........!

**Tmark Dc** · 06-08-2012, 03:20 AM

Attachment 356970 Attachment 356971 Attachment 356972 Attachment 356973
number 1: 5430 C
number 2: s/245

Edit: Thats the best i got. Any other shots or angles that you need just lemme know.

**Walkwolf** · 06-08-2012, 03:38 AM

'5430 c' is the serial number, and 'S/245' is the maker. It is a pre-WWII
Third Reich K98 bayonet made by 'J. Sch'.

There will be a date on the spine - the top flat side - of the blade,
near the crossguard. Likely '36' or '37'.

From the photos, I'd be apt to leave it be. If you want to
remove some of the rust, rub some light oil on the metal
parts with a cloth and it will come up a bit.........

**Tmark Dc** · 06-08-2012, 03:41 AM

by Walkwolf

'5430 c' is the serial number, and 'S/245' is the maker. It is a pre-WWII
Third Reich K98 bayonet made by 'J. Sch'.

There will be a date on the spine - the top flat side - of the blade,
near the crossguard. Likely '36' or '37'.

From the photos, I'd be apt to leave it be. If you want to
remove some of the rust, rub some light oil on the metal
parts with a cloth and it will come up a bit.........

Is it worth anything? Or just a common collectors item.

**Walkwolf** · 06-08-2012, 03:56 AM

K98k bayonets are relatively common, but it is worth something.
If the serial numbers ( '5430 c' ) on the scabbard match that of
the bayonet, it will be worth more than a mis-matched set.
They sell on ebay all the time.

Condition is a factor, but it should be worth more to you
as a family heirloom.........