Early Hitler Youth Knife by Gembruch – D969

As the title implies, this offering is for an early HJ by a maker that is not all that often encountered for these youth knives. Both grip plates are in wonderful condition, void of any cracks, splits, or missing material. Additionally, they remain tightly riveted to the spine. An excellent HJ diamond is shown in fine condition, and nicely centered to the obverse half section. The plating has held up decent on this hilt, to both the pommel area and the quillion.

  The scabbard to this knife has held up decent overall. As most of these youth knives usually exhibit, the shell displays wear and use as expected. In lieu of that it still retains 75% of the original black period enamel over it’s surface. At the top of this scabbard is a very nice hanger to complete the assembly. The leather is all in place, firmly riveted, with the small cross strap and snap which functions fine.

  Lastly the blade, and it’s the desirable motto version which collectors love to find on these early HJ’s. This blade remains full length, void of any tipping, sharpening scars, or cutting edge chips. As expected in the hands of a 12 year old, the surface does show normal age and spotting. Though not apparent in the photo, the blade is slightly canted to about 1%, where the youngster owner probably pried on something at one time. That aside, it still remains absolutely tight in the hilt. For the early production timeframe of this edged weapon, an excellent Blut und Ehre etched motto can be observed nicely burnished and centered on the obverse. Lastly, just the fish logo and Solingen name is shown on the reverse, the trademark of the Gembruch edged weapon firm.   SOLD