I purchased this today direct from the German vet who carried it. This gentleman was with the 1st Parachute Division and he obtained the knife during the fighting at Monte Cassino when the original owner was killed. The original owner was “an old timer” and was involved in the assault on Fort Eben-Emael according to this man.

I had no real knowledge of these knives prior to today. Originally he was not interested in selling but eventually offered to sell it to me. He gave me a price and I agreed to it not knowing the value of the knife at all. He said he sold numerous other German items about four months ago..including his original camouflage/with wire paratrooper helmet. This knife he was keeping for himself but I think he could see how much I appreciated it and he felt that it was going to a good home.

He thought very highly of his items and his prices reflected that although a quick internet search tells me that I purchased the knife at a fair price.

I heard numerous stories about the war and he showed me pictures of himself during the war. There were things that he understandably wouldn’t talk about but all in all it was a very nice day.

The “A” carved in the handle is the initial of the original owner. The numbers “937″ are stamped in the well by the spike and “43″ on the locking lever.

Any thoughts or information of this knife would be most appreciated.

Best,
Rob