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Up for sale is a rare, authentic World War I French military folding trench knife (Couteau à palme / Clasp knife). This historical piece features an exceptional and highly sought-after double-stamped blade, documenting the French military\'s wartime contracting system in Thiers.
**Historical Blade Markings:**
1. Tang Mark: Deeply struck \"23 COUVREUX\", representing the official French military general staff wartime contract series distributed to infantrymen (Poilus) and elite trench-raiding units (Corps Francs) around 1915.
2. Blade Cartouche: The distinct crescent moon stamp enclosing the surname \"BATISSE\"—the registered hallmark of the legendary Bâtisse cutlery forge in Thiers, France. This confirms Bâtisse as the master forge providing blanks for the primary Couvreux military contract.
**Design & Mechanism:**
This folding combat knife features the classic external leaf spring \"couteau à palme\" locking system built along the spine, complete with its original pull-ring/lever mechanism near the bolster. The curved, single-piece dark hardwood handle remains structurally sound with a deep, natural age patina.
**Condition Notes:**
This item is in original, uncleaned vintage condition. The carbon steel blade shows a beautiful, deep, historic dark patina with expected uniform pitting and light surface scale consistent with a century of age. The blade edge is honest, showing no aggressive modern grinding or re-profiling. The locking mechanism functions properly.
A magnificent, museum-grade addition to any WWI European militaria, trench gear, or vintage folding cutlery collection. Extremely Rare piece.
