Original Imperial German WWI Hessian Infantry Officer’s Sword & Scabbard with Sharkskin Grip by Otto Mertens of Solingen Italian Flags they would be replaced by

they would be replaced by either the SPH-2

which became the standard anti-buffet helmet from around 1954 onwards

We can only imagine that it is a later version made due to complaints regarding hands freezing to the helmet

The total production was

This is an excellent textbook example of the standard issue version

Original Imperial German WWI Hessian Infantry Officer’s Sword & Scabbard with Sharkskin Grip by Otto Mertens of Solingen Italian Flags they would be replaced byOriginal Item. Only One Available. This is a lovely & scarce example of a WWI Era Hessian Infantry Officers sword & scabbard. The hilt is lovely silvered brass with a great ornate guard design. The 25 blade is in good condition and retains much of its nickel plating. It is marked on one side of the ricasso with: OTTO MERTENS SOLINGEN This is a scarcely seen maker during this period. The blade has some light oxidation near the tip. The hilt is in