I think the answer is most probably because the hilts on these knives is aluminium. Manfred is quite right that these knives were intended for children & not really meant for any practical use.

I am sure that Herman is not alone in his opinion, however I am in no doubts about the originality of the one I have, it is undoubtedly original & came from a very advanced collection. The existance of the Nurnburg & Olympic examples is also evidence of their period production. These are offered from time to time by the most respected & knowledgeable dealers. Last time I looked T.W. had an unmarked example (as most were) on his site.

War is when your government tells you who the enemy is.
Revolution is when you figure it out for yourself.