A GERMAN MADE ARGENTINE M1909 ‘MODELO ARGENTINO 1909’ 2nd MODEL SWORD BAYONET AND SCABBARD WITH MATCHING NUMBERS MANUFACTURED BY WEYWERSBERG KIRSCHBAUM & Cie  SOLINGEN.

 

This ‘museum quality’ German made Modelo Argentino 1909 2nd Model M1909 sword bayonet was similar to the earlier M1891 and differed only in the wood grips and position of the release catch.  The earlier 1st Model M1909 was identical in all respects except for the position of the muzzle ring which was designed for use with Model 1898 Mausers. This ‘sabre’ bladed variant was manufactured under contract by WEYWERSBERG KIRSCHBAUM & Cie SOLINGEN (WKC) and is stamped on both bayonet and scabbard with matching numbers.

 

The handsome Modelo Argentino 1909 was the variant issued to infantry and other arms in the Ejército Argentino or Argentine Army. These weapons remained in service for a considerable period of time up until the end of the Second World War.  This particular sword bayonet was most probably in use for at least 50 years.  Attached to this listing are two photographs of Argentinian Infantrymen during and before WWII training with Modelo Argentino 1909 bayonets.  Interestingly, the Argentine crest was often removed before these bayonets were sold as surplus and that is not the case with this example which retains it original ownership marks.

 

This particular example is clearly marked and is stamped with matching numbers on the bayonet and scabbard. The obverse crossguard and front face of the scabbard are both stamped C9980.  A number of marks are clearly visible on other parts of the bayonet, the reverse ricasso is stamped with the WEYWERSBERG KIRSCHBAUM & C0 SOLINGEN manufacturers trademark.  The obverse ricasso is marked with the type mark MODELO ARGENTINO 1909 and the crest of the Ejército Argentino (Argentine Army).  The back edge of the blade is stamped with an A Argentine ownership mark. The rear face of the scabbard is stamped with Argentine ownership and inspectors marks of an x inside D and a + inside an O.

 

This is a first rate ‘museum quality’ Modelo Argentino 1909 with riveted hardwood grips set into a steel hilt.  Its fitted with a straight ‘sabre’ profile steel blade (see pictures).  The sword shows clear evidence of use consistent with age and employment and has an excellent used patina. This sword bayonet was probably in service with different units for at least 40 years, and probably over 50 years, and while it displays evidence of that use it’s a first class example of its type.  The matching numbered steel scabbard retains much of its original bluing and is in similarly excellent condition.

 

Type: Modelo Argentino 1909

Maker: WKC - Solingen

Overall Length: 523.0 mm

Blade Length:  394.0 mm

Blade Width (at guard):  32.0 mm

Scabbard: Blued steel

Overall Length of Scabbard:  405.0 mm

 

From Australia, this is a superb ‘museum quality’ example of a Modelo Argentino 1909 sword bayonet and scabbard rarely encountered in Australia. All up, a cracking bayonet, and a really evocative piece.