Pre-WW1, probably around 1900. No - these weren't issued to train crews for repelling boarders, they were strictly for show at patriotic parades. The local guy in charge would wave it heroically in time with the oom-pah music while his minions dutifully marched behind. (hopefully in step). Most of these were from Austria, but this example is from the German eisenbahn. (RR) It was the only one I've ever seen for sale in America. The German auction site, eGun dot De only lists them very occasionally, so they're rare in any case.
Shown with an 1889 pattern Bavarian cavalry sword for comparison.
IMG_0613.jpg The RR symbol
IMG_0615.jpg
Shown with an 1889 pattern Bavarian cavalry sword for comparison.
IMG_0613.jpg The RR symbol
IMG_0615.jpg

Comment