-
Looking for identification/clarity on potential WWI-era shovel
I purchased a shovel that was described to be a WWI-era shovel but was vague in its description. TBH I didn't really care about what it really was when I bought it as I am not an avid collector and I just thought "Old shovel looks cool. I have $80 to spare." So I spent 60$ + ~13$ in taxes/shipping to buy one that was part of an assortment of many. Now that I have it, I have gotten curious as to what it actually is. A bit backwards from what I should have done but I'm trying to find out more.
Anyways, aforementioned eBay page:
Pictures attached to ad:
I spent a solid hour plus cleaning the grease off it when it arrived, but I can't seem to find any markings to indicate any era or producer. The shovel seems to be in quite good condition with almost no traces of rust, though that could be in large part to the grease that encased it. The blade itself is in good condition with some assorted nicks, and the serrated edge of the shovel is still moderately sharp. I have not found any shovels that looked exactly the same as this one through my research on it but it appears to be akin to the Linnemann design.
Some quick measurements put the shovel at about 21 inches (~54 cm) tall with the blade being about 8 inches (20 cm) tall and just under 6 inches (~14 cm) wide. The step (part you would plant your feet) seem to extend approx. 1/4 inch beyond the sides of the blade.
As you can see, one side of the shovel blade is serrated. I couldn't find much on that either but there is a clear indent line running alongside the serration, which is about 5 inches (13 cm) long)
The handle seems typical and has no markings to indicate any customization or personal engravings. It is in good conition though and has quite the assortment of nicks and scratches itself. It has a clear pommel (if you can call it that) and each side below the pommel are indented for about 4 inches (10 cm), perhaps for gripping.
Beyond this, I don't really have any additional information or insight into what I now own other than it arrived from the Czech Republic, which still says nothing. If you have any additional image request I would be happy to oblige. Additionally, If there are places their could be markings that I haven't cleaned thoroughly enough, please let me know.
Finally, are there any recommended ways to clean any remaining grease/residue off of the shovel? I am pretty content with the extent I have cleaned it to this point, but what are the recommended ways to clean it further? I have not used any type of cleaning product or even water on it so far, I have only used clothe and assorted tools to clear the grease off. I don't have any plans to clean it anymore as of right now but what are the preferred ways for doing so?
Any advice or input would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance
-
01-11-2021 06:10 PM
# ADS
Circuit advertisement
-
-
Thanks for the response, hopefully we will discover the origins of this shovel someday. Appreciate your input
-
-
Thanks for the follow up and I'm glad to know what I got!
Bookmarks