Original U.S. WWII Anti Aircraft Shot Down Award Certificate - 473rd AAA AW Battalion (SP) U.S. Flare Guns that would definitely explain this

that would definitely explain this type of wear

It's very possible that the scabbard was left on the blade and deteriorated

The symbol button is nicely set having fully intact translucent enameling

The reverse ricasso is also stamped with an RZM circle

Original U.S. WWII Anti Aircraft Shot Down Award Certificate - 473rd AAA AW Battalion (SP) U.S. Flare Guns that would definitely explain thisOriginal Item: One of a kind. The is an award certificate given to Battery B 473rd Anti Aircraft Automatic Weapon Battalion Mobile for successfully shooting down a German Messerschmitt Me 210 during World War Two. It is framed and measures 12" x 9". HEADQUARTERS NINTH U. S. ARMY AWARD OF CAT I CLAIM THIS IS TO CERTIFY THAT: Btry B 473rd AAA AW Bn (SP) SHOT DOWN ONE Me 210 at K 7905770 near Herlenn, Holland 1181310A December 1944. J. G. MURPHY COLONEL,