A very nice early Hitler Youth (HJ) Knife marked on the blade with the logo for maker August Merten of Solingen. This early HJ Knife is a solid example of the type, with a handle that is nickel-plated over a steel base. The plating still remains in nice condition, with about 95% still intact. The acid-etched motto Blut und Ehre! (Blood and Honor!) is present and legible but the original dark etched finish has been polished off by polishing. The Bakelite grip plates are closely checkered and in perfect condition, retained by nickel-plated rivets with dressed obverse heads. The HJ insignia is MINT.  The scabbard shell is the typical tapered example with approximately 70% of original paint.  The leather hanger and belt loop are still in excellent condition.  The retainer loop is intact and has a good working snap.  The blade is an excellent example.  Overall the knife looks like it was wore frequently, but not used.  The blade doesn’t show signs of being sharpen, which is not the norm.  Excellent++.

A16122