German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword (Infanterie Offizier Degen)

Type / Pattern: German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword (IOD)
Approx. Date: Late 19th to early 20th century (c. 1889–1918)
Origin: German Empire – private purchase, commonly Solingen manufacture
Current Status: Private collection (Historical Sword Society)

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword />
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<strong>Abstract:</strong> The German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword, or Infanterie Offizier Degen (IOD), served as the standard sidearm for Imperial German infantry officers. Featuring a straight, thrust-oriented blade and a distinctive guard design, it reflects both martial tradition and ceremonial function. Widely worn prior to and during the First World War, the IOD represents the transition from practical combat weapon to symbol of rank, discipline, and professional identity within the German officer corps.
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Image Set

Use this section for detailed photographs: full length, hilt, pommel, markings, scabbard, and close-ups of condition.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 01

View 01

Primary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 02

View 02

Supplementary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 03

View 03

Supplementary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 04

View 04

Supplementary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 05

View 05

Supplementary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 06

View 06

Supplementary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 07

View 07

Supplementary artifact view.

German M1889 Infantry Officer Sword view 08

View 08

Supplementary artifact view.

Specifications

Overall length[mm / in]
Blade length[mm / in]
Blade width (at ricasso)[mm / in]
Blade thickness (at ricasso)[mm / in]
Point of balance[mm / in from guard]
Weight[g / lb]
Fullers[description]
Edge geometry[description]
Hilt material[brass / steel / etc.]
Grip[wood/leather/wire/etc.]
Scabbard[present/absent; material; markings]

Marks, Inscriptions, and Identification Basis

Observed markings: [List spine, ricasso, guard, scabbard marks]
Interpretation: [Arsenal/manufacturer, inspector marks, unit marks, export marks]
Identification basis: [Pattern features, dimensions, comparison references]

References: Add citations to books, catalogs, museum collections, or archival documents.

Condition and Conservation Notes

Provenance

[List acquisition details, prior owners (if known), dealer notes, and supporting documentation.]