Tim L:
I also have a couple of those Aust.NCO's that are plated...
Years ago I heard that these plated pieces were Austrian Police, used after WWI.
I have one that has been re-assembled with the guard inverted, with the guard hook in the place of the muz. ring...I've had quite a few belly laughs when I've trotted out this piece.
I believe that the second rivet on the guard was inadvertently ground off and that the blade was also partially ground at the same time...I don't think you could rub that much metal off the blade by just withdrawing and returning the blade to the scabbard.
It's been an interesting discussion on this blade.
Best Regards,
Jack