Recently, the daggers carried by the Axis powers, and other European countries, have proved to be popular collectibles. Although, in general, they are not as well made as their German counterparts, they are still of great historical significance, and certainly display well. Since reference material is still lacking, there are still many bargains to be had in this field - rarities have still not been established. In addition to the fine Chapter written by Dr. Milestone, in Johnson's Volume 3, and the fine reference book by Kurt Glemser entitled, "A Guide to Military Dress Daggers" (available in the "book" section on the "Offering"), recently a new hard back book has come out, entitled, "World of Dress Daggers", by Robert Berger. It is almost 300 pages, and definitely worth purchasing - has great informative text and wonderful photos.
AXIS #33618 Dutch Naval Cadet Dirk - E. & F. Hörster
This Dutch Naval Cadet is basically of the same format that was originally developed in the 1880s. This particular dagger is probably from the 1950s or 1960s, and is complete with the leather belt and extremely long hanging chains. The hilt of the dirk has brass mounts. The pommel is in the shape of a door knob, having serrated edges on the sharp points. The cross has a rectangular center block featuring an anchor on the obverse side and on the reverse some type of a docking device. The quillon arms go outward and are four-sided and they end in acorn-looking quillons. The number “848” is stamped on the right obverse quillon arm of this cross guard. Above the cross guard is a small rounded ferule, having some pebbling and good engraving in the surfaces. The grip is a white celluloid or plastic. It has two sets of four raised ribs, which act as a hand hold. The white grip has turned an ivory color and it has an age crack of each of the edge sides. There are no chips or problems with the grip. The scabbard is a matching tapered gilded brass type, featuring no decoration on the reverse with the exception of lined pseudo bands. The obverse has engraved decorations which feature the bands again and in between, there is an engraved anchor. At the lower portion, there are sea plant style leaves and at the final chape area there are acanthus leaves standing up. The lower button tapers inward. The eyelets have a flared center area with a plain girded carrying rings. Attached to the rings are gilded brass snaps with two sets of chains. These chains connect to a brown leather belt. The upper chain is of a standard length and has a regained hook at the top. The lower chain is extraordinarily long. A dagger which is identical to this example can be seen on Page 181 of the Berger Book. The leather belt is fairly thin, having brass D rings and a gilded brass buckle with lion mask faces which connects together with a hook. The leather to the belt is still in excellent condition. The blade is slight over 9 inches in length and is a center ridge type with double edges. It is nickel plated and has a fine etch on both sides. The etch features a fouled anchor in the center and at the upper portion has sea plants and a trident. The lower portion has an additional fouled anchor which features twisted serpents around the shank. The ricasso has a sunburst type figure. This blade etch is very similar to the type used by the German Navy. The frosting behind the etch is in 100% condition and this blade itself is still in mint condition. The obverse blade ricasso is etched with the maker’s logo being dual ovals which contain the firm’s name and location, “E&F Hörster” “Solingen”. Inside is a large “H” letter with a smaller “H” and “S” letter inside the large letter. The smaller letters are pierced by a downward pointing sword. On the reverse there is a distributor name “J.W. Houfer” from the town of “Schiedam” which is located near Rotterdam. Obviously, Hörster made these dirks and they were distributed through this company to the Dutch Naval Cadets. There is an enclosure type brass seal beneath the cross guard which overlaps the scabbard throat. A nice looking dirk here, of good quality.Excellent Plus, Plus. $495.00(#013012)
- AXIS #29548C Italian Youth Knife
This Italian Youth Knife is a good looking example, having fine 100% gilded hilt. The hilt features a bird head with an open beak looking to the viewer’s left. The bird has excellent feathering throughout showing some handwork, and the feathering continues down the entire back strap. The bird is equipped with faceted red eyes. There is a pommel cap on top of the bird’s head which acts to retain the tang. The ferrule below matches the gilt finish and has some attractive swirls that run throughout its circumference. The grip is a wood base which gives the look of simulated leather. The pain, which is a dark blue color, has a texture to its finish. There are also four ribs in the grip, each of which is triple wrapped with brass wire, the center wire being twisted. The cross guard has quillon ends which go outward and are rounded. The cross guard is undecorated and is a flat brass metal. The scabbard is made up of a simple dark blue color leather sown together in two halves. There is a retainer strap which was meant to serve as a belt loop. The strap is retained by rivets. This sheath is rather crude, but this is the way they were made. The tip of the sheath shows some mild wear to the leather. The blade of this example is a single edge with a false edge at the top running back about half the length. The blade has a ricasso. This blade is nickel plated and although the surface below the plating is somewhat crude, the plating is still 100% and this blade is in mint condition. A good looking Hitler Youth knife here.Mint Minus. $425.00
- AXIS #29547C Italian Youth Knife
This Italian Youth Knife is a good looking example, having fine 100% gilded hilt. The hilt features a bird head with an open beak looking to the viewer’s left. The bird has excellent feathering throughout showing some handwork, and the feathering continues down the entire back strap. The bird is equipped with faceted red eyes. There is a pommel cap on top of the bird’s head which acts to retain the tang. The ferule below matches the gilt finish and has some attractive swirls that run throughout its circumference. The grip is a wood base which gives the look of simulated leather. The pain, which is a dark blue color, has a texture to its finish. There are also four ribs in the grip, each of which is triple wrapped with brass wire, the center wire being twisted. The cross guard has quillon ends which go outward and are rounded. The cross guard is undecorated and is a flat brass metal. The scabbard is made up of a simple dark blue color leather sown together in two halves. There is a retainer strap which was meant to serve as a belt loop. The strap is retained by rivets. This sheath is rather crude, but this is the way they were made. The tip of the sheath shows some mild wear to the leather. The blade of this example is a single edge with a false edge at the top running back about half the length. The blade has a ricasso. This blade is nickel plated and although the surface below the plating is somewhat crude, the plating is still 100% and this blade is in mint condition. A good looking Hitler Youth knife here.Mint Minus. $425.00
- AXIS #26721 Unidentified Italian Naval Dirk
This Italian Naval Dirk is of a pattern that I have never seen before. It is definitely of wartime construction and is a most interesting design. The hilt is actually formed in the shape of an anchor. The pommel top is all in brass and forms the upper shank of the anchor complete with a rope through the upper simulated area. The ferule center block and cross guards are in the shape of the anchor hasp and plows. The ferule area is actually staged, going from smaller to larger where it meets the center block area. Here on the obverse, there is a raised panel that has the letters “CP”. These letters are extremely well formed and are shaded for quality. The cross guards both go upward and are in the shape of anchor prongs. The grip is formed from off-white celluloid plates. These plates are each three-sided. There is one tiny chip on the reverse upper plate. The scabbard is an all brass matching variety which tapers toward the lower potion. The brass is basically plain throughout with a separated lower button at the chape. There are separate bands which have a knotted rope motif engraved into the obverse and reverse sides. The eyelets are plain as are the hanging rings. On either side of the scabbard respectively is the engraving “Salerno Beachead”. Obviously, the Salerno Beachead was the landing point for the Allies in Italy so I would think that this engraving may have been put on as a separate addition to memorialize this dirk as a soldier’s memento of the Italian campaign, but I do not know. The blade is a typical Italian type having a tapered ricasso which joins to a center ridge blade having double edges. It appears as though the blade was nickel plated at one time as there are remains of the nickel plating still on the ricasso. The edges of the blade though, have lost their plating. This piece is of high quality and quite interesting. I do not think that it is a tourist piece sold to Allied troops, but then again, I do not know. It certainly shows age and toning from 70 years, and I think it is a good looking dirk.Excellent. $1,295.00
- AXIS #27633C Hungarian Army Officer Dirk
This Hungarian Army Officer Dirk appears to be from the period, being produced of fine brass mounts. The pommel area has a tapered four sided upper section and a rounded top which features a raised out Soviet star. The ferule is also tapered in the same manner, having a release-a-blade release button on the reverse. The matching brass cross guard has a upper tear drop and a lower tear drop on each quillon end. The grip is an orange color celluloid which is four sided with squared corners. The celluloid is in perfect condition and is a pleasing tangerine color. The scabbard shell is mostly likely a wood base, and is covered with a fine grained black leather. This leather shows some mild wear and usage, but there are no cuts or bruises. The matching brass scabbard mounts each have a pointed center area where they meet the scabbard shell on both sides. These mounts are plain throughout, being retained by matching brass rivets in the center reverse. The upper and center mount are equipped with plain rounded eyelets and matching brass carrying rings. The throat is nicely cut out to accept the blade and lock. The blade is a fine nickel plated example being in perfect mint condition. This blade has a “V” shaped ricasso which blends into a center ridge on both sides. The blade is double edged with a needlelike tip. The reverse ricasso is fitted with a locking mechanism and the obverse has the serial number “0047” deeply stamped into the surface. The black leather blade buffer is in place showing mild age. A fine Hungarian Army Officer dirk which shows some wear of the period. A nice period piece.Excellent Plus. $395.00
- AXIS #27655C GDR Army/Air Force Dirk
This dirk comes from the German Democratic Republic which of course was run by the Soviet Union. The mounts are all fine steel having a chrome plate. The pommel is a circular style having a peened top. The ferule below is plain, having a blade release button in the reverse. The cross guards are a straight form having acorn like quillon ends. The grip is a plastic or celluloid which has four ribs for a handhold. The obverse portion of the grip has toned to a deep tan color while the reverse is still mostly off-white. The scabbard is of all steel having upper and lower matching chrome mounts. The mounts have a “V”shape design where they meet the scabbard shell. The shell is either painted black or has a blued finish. The obverse of the upper mount is decorated with a shield shape with pebbled finish having a raised oak leaf and acorn in the center. Above this is a double circle with wheat shafts in between and a symbol resembling the Mason’s Compass. The two eyelets are positioned in the upper mount being round and having plain surfaces. The carrying rings are more of a “V” shape but rounded at the bottom. The fine blade is similar to a Third Reich Naval type having dual fuller construction with ricasso. The blade is a fine chrome plated type being in perfect mint condition. The obverse ricasso is stamped with a shield having a building like representation. I don’t know the maker’s name who holds this logo. On the reverse there are some lines that were put through to erase the original serial number. The blade lock is situated on the reverse ricasso. The new-like brown leather washer is in place. A nice high-quality dirk here.Mint Minus. $595.00
AXIS #30962 Model 1934 French Pilot’s Dagger
This French Pilot’s Dagger is a period piece and not one of the ones from the 1950’s. The hilt has squared mounts that are made of brass construction. The upper pommel has a nut-like device retaining the tang. The lower portion of the grip ferrule has a “U” bracket, which is installed to aide with the use of a portepee. The grip appears to be white celluloid, exactly meeting the squared proportions of the two grip mounts. The crossguard below consists of a matching brass straight type, having tapered quillon arms that also end in squared off depiction. The scabbard is also squared on the edges and is probably a wood base. This scabbard shell is covered with blue-black leather, having a decorative edge on both sides. The leather has good grain and is still in perfect condition. The scabbard mounts match the square design of the hilt type. There is an upper, center and lower example that taper to a chape end tip. The upper and center brass examples are fitted with plain eyelets and carrying rings. The blade is a double-edge type with center ridge and ricasso. The blade appears to have a chrome-plated finish. There are some nicks to the center ridge of one side of the blade. The other side looks fairly clean and in near mint condition. A good, original, French Pilot’s example.Excellent. $895.00
AXIS #27629C Italian Finance Registry Dagger
This dirk is one of the prettiest examples I can remember seeing. Its design is very well done and really has all of the bells and whistles. The dagger has a pommel which is in the shape of a castle turret. It appears to be a gilded brass or gilded nickel. Below the turret the pommel becomes square shaped where it fits over the grip plates. The ferrule area is also quite beautiful having a raised out fern like leaf which runs around the circumference. Below this is a plain fitting which rests on an extremely elegant crossguard. The crossguard is straight in the center and has pebbled finish. Each quillon arm is shaped in the head of an eagle. The eagle’s feathering, brow and beak is very well shaped. In addition, the bird’s eyes are drilled which gives depth to the heads. The grip plates are bulbous in the center tapering to a more narrow size at the top and the bottom. These grips appear to be genuine mother of pearl and they also have three decorative lines which run the length and following the same bulbous shape. There are side plates which are also made with raised fern like leaves. The entire hilt is a very beautiful design. The scabbard is a thin, nickel based, gilded brass type, which tapers to a small chape ball at the bottom. The chape is fluted around the circumference. The scabbard has many designs on the obverse surface featuring a shell device at the top over the first carrying band. There is some wear to the high points throughout. The scabbard obverse has a shell-like device raised out at the top area above the forward carrying band. This carrying band has overlapping oak leaves with berries with an eyelet and carrying ring. The band below is the same motif with ring. In the area between the bands there is raised out knight figure with helmet, and below this a shield device with some type of an animal figure in the shield. Below the second band are raised overlapping laurel leaves, then a raised star, and then more overlapping laurel leaves which continue down to the ball-style chape that is fluted around the circumference. The reverse of the scabbard is basically plain, except for some overlapping laurel leaves at the bottom segment. The blade of this example is narrow and rather stiletto-looking. It has a ricasso with dual edged configuration. The reverse ricasso has the name etched on it, “Tupco/Napoli”. There is a ferrule at the bottom of the crossguard that acts as a cup and seals over the top of the scabbard. A very beautiful dirk here, and I believe a fairly rare piece. Apparently, these dirks were carried by cadets who were learning to be customs agents. The dirk was produced around 1960. Excellent Plus. $495.00 (#011912)
AXIS #27549C French Air Force NCO Dirk
This French Air Force NCO Dirk is similar to the example shown in the Berger book on page 108, except it is the NCO version, having a blue grip instead of a white grip. Otherwise, it is the same. As is the case with the French Officer dagger, all fittings have squared corners. The pommel and ferrule are of brass construction, being square pieces, and having small signs of gilt remaining. The grip is a blue color, which could be a celluloid material or painted wood. The crossguard below is very simple with two short quillons, having squared ends. The scabbard shell has squared corners, and appears to be made of wood, covered with blue-black fine grained leather. This leather is still in fine condition. The scabbard is fitted with squared brass mounts. The upper and center mounts have eyelets and carrying rings. The reverse of the ferrule has a “U” fitting, which would have steadied a portepee. The blade is a nickel plates example, having double edged construction with center ridge. The ricasso is short and has the name of the producer, “Ets Sabatier Jeune/Bellevue-Thiers”. There is a small spring assembly installed on the left edge of the blade, which keeps the dagger within the scabbard. These pieces were first produced in 1934, but they were worn through the 1950’s. It is impossible to tell the vintage of this piece, but it does have some age.Excellent, Plus, Plus $995.00
AXIS #27596C Argentinian Federal Police Officer
This dagger is quite long, being overall about 23”. It has gilded mounts which are extremely bright. I do not believe that this dirk is too old; it looks to be 15 or 20 years old at the most. It has a pommel which is shaped similar to a doorknob and on the obverse there is a figure which seems to be flared out. Along the top are more figures, but they are not deeply cut so they are difficult to make out. The top of the pommel has a screw device which acts as a tang nut. There is a ferrule at the bottom which has decoration throughout and then there is a cross guard which is branch-like on both sides having a clamshell which is built into the design of the cross guard. The clamshell has floral type designs. There is an oval shape in the center with a star over what looks like a building. There is an oval wreath around this depiction. The grip is a dark blue substance which may be rubberized plastic. It has 7 ribs which run downward from right to left. These ribs are wrapped with triple wire, the center being twisted. This wire is gilded to match the other parts. The scabbard shell is metal tube steel painted black. There are three matching gilded mounts on this shell. The top two mounts have bands with a floral design with built in eyelet. The upper mount has a wreath depicted below the band. The lower chape fitting has some floral designs and it ends in a button type cap. This blade measures 15” in length. The obverse has an etched panel with frosted background. The etch has designs which flank the center area. These designs are similar to the type that appear on the clamshell. In the center, there is an etching that is raised out “Policia Federal Argentina”. The reverse has a similar etch pattern and in the center “Republica Argentina”. There is a maker mark on the ricasso that appears to be the initials “TJ” within a shield. The blade is protected by a leather buffer. An interesting looking long dirk here.Mint. $495.00 (#011911)
AXIS #23874 Bulgarian Labor Corps Dirk - Puma
This attractive Bulgarian Labor Corps dirk
is the same as is shown in the Glemser Volume IV Book, page 121.
It is also very similar to the example shown in the Berger Book
on page 48, except the insignia of Bulgaria is missing from the
center scabbard on this Berger Book piece, but is shown on the
Glemser piece. At any rate, the fittings of this hilt are cast
in fine gilded brass. The pommel is in the shape of a crown which
is thicker at the top and tapers down at the neck. There is also
a ball like device at the top of the crown. This example shows
some hand wear from the original bearer of this dagger, but it
is still possible to see most of the complicated detail that decorates
this pommel. The crossguard is also a most interesting unit. The
center block area depicts a Bulgarian royal crown having a shield-like
device with a lion in the center of the shield under a royal crown.
The shield is supported by additional crowned lions standing on
each side of the shield. This center block area is depicted in
silver contrasting nicely with the gilded brass of the quillon
arms. The left quillon arm extends outward in a tapered manner
having pebbling to its backgrounds. At the end, is a quillon detailing
a lion's head. The right crossguard arms extends outward in the
same manner, and at the quillon end, is depicted the shape of
a spade. Superimposed over the spade is also a pick. Most interesting
designs here having much eye appeal. This dagger was made in Germany
so the designs and craftsmanship are of the highest caliber. The
grip is a very pleasing pumpkin orange color. It is the same as
the type we would see on a German Naval dirk. The grip is in perfect
condition on the obverse, and has a small chip at the reverse
top as well as a couple of hairline cracks in the two center rib
sections. None of this is bad, however. The grip is tightly wrapped
with gilded single twisted brass wire. The scabbard is nice and
straight throughout and is a steel shell. The shell has a pebbled
background in the metal and is painted black. It deceives the
viewer into thinking the shell is covered with finely grained
leather, but it is only paint. The shell is fitted with two carrying
bands and eyelets which also resemble the German Naval type. These
bands are made showing overlapping oak leaves and acorns. The
upper eyelets are plain and the upper ring is plain. The lower
ring has a roped depiction similar to the way both book pieces
are depicted. (Assumedly the top ring could be a replacement.)
In between the two bands is a silvered crest. This crest is egg
shaped and depicts a mountain with sunrays coming up from it.
There are Cyrillic writings over the top of the mountain and below,
which are typical Bulgarian. The lower chape of this example is
a smooth smaller type which is not exactly like the ones which
are shown in both book pieces, but it does appear to be original.
The blade is identical to a German Navy type. It reflects double
fuller construction and has highest quality nickel-plated finish.
This blade is in mint condition and really looks great. The obverse
ricasso has the etching of a crown over a stylized "B"
letter. This is the cipher of King Boris. The reverse ricasso
has the familiar Puma cat with the firm name below the cat's head,
which is all depicted within a diamond. Below the diamond is the
place of manufacture, "Solingen". There is a leather
washer which seals this blade. This is a rarely seen dagger and
is in a highly collectible state.Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,195.00
AXIS #27635C Model 1945 Russian Naval Officer's Dirk
This Russian Naval Officer Dirk is nearly the same as the example shown in the Fedurin book in color on page 306. The dirk is made of gilded mounts. The pommel has a squared look with a round tang nut at the top. The upper portion of the tang nut has a raised out star. The front section of the pommel displays the Russian two headed eagle with crown above. The ferrule is a matching shape to the pommel and it has a blade release push button on the reverse. The crossguard is a matching gilded brass having the left quillon going upward in a teardrop shape and the right quillon downward in a teardrop shape. The grip appears to be made of a tan colored plastic which is shaved on the corners to give it a segmented look. The scabbard of this example is a metal shell covered with blue black grained leather. The shell is equipped with matching gilded brass mounts. The mounts have points in the center areas where they meet the scabbard shell. The upper mount and center mount are equipped with eyelets with brass rings. The upper mount features a stamped anchor with fouled rope. The anchor occupies the majority of the frontal position of this fitting. On the reverse there is a sailing ship on the ocean with a castle having two flags on top in the background. These mounts are retained with rivet like nails through the scabbard shell. The bright blade is a double edged high ridge center type having short ricasso. On the obverse there is a number etched in, “2005” and below that the letter, “C”. I believe this is an accountability number not the date as this piece looks to be from the 1960s or 70s. The blade is in mint condition and is buffered with a leather washer. A nice Russian naval dirk.Excellent Plus, Plus. $395.00
AXIS #27554C Royal Yugoslavian Naval Type 3 Dagger
This Type 3 Yugoslavian
Naval Daggeris identical to the example shown on page 281 of the Berger
book. The hilt fittings are of all brass construction. The pommel
is in the Turkish head-knot variety, having good detail to the
roping. The crossguard and ferrule are one unit. The center block
area features a scallop shell, and the quillon arms are in the
forms of dolphins with their heads inward, and tails going outward,
to a curl at the end. There is a blade release button at the reverse.
The grip is a celluloid over wood, having ten ribs which go downward
from right to left. These ribs are decorated with twisted brass
wire. The scabbard is a metal shell base, with leather covering.
The leather is a fine grain, being a black color. The scabbard
has four separate brass mounts. The top mount consists of the
throat assembly, having dual oak leaf overlapping leaves running
around its circumference. The second band has the same oak leaf
designs and is fit with an eyelet and ring. The third example
is the same, also having an eyelet and ring. At the lower area
is a chape fitting, which has a Neptune head at the top, with
a 3-pronged trident pointing upward at the bottom. The reverse
of this fitting is plain. A nice looking scabbard here. The blade
of this example is a high quality nickel plated type. It is double
edged with a center ridge. The obverse has the cipher King Peter
II in the center area, which consists of a crown with long streamers
over the Roman number II. The rest of the blade is floral designed.
The reverse blade panel is totally of floral designs. This blade
is in near mint condition, having only in-and-out marks. It is
fitted with a blade release lock. It is protected by a leather
blade buffer. A fairly rare dagger here, and not a bad looking
piece.Near Mint. $1,995.00
AXIS #27571C Swedish Army Clamshell Bayonet
This Clamshell
Bayonet is of fine quality construction, and very much resembles
the German types. The pommel consists of a Swedish Lionhead, which
looks to the viewer’s left. The surfaces of the lion have
a small stippling throughout. The crossguard has a single quillon
which points upward, and the surfaces are stippled having a border.
There is a clamshell that has a shield device in the center, which
is of plain finish. The area around the shield is stippled. The
grip plates are made of genuine stag horn. The stag is of light
color, having pleasing shades of tan in the grains. The edges
have been trimmed to properly fit the hilt. These grip plates
are retained by two small rivets. The scabbard is a standard bayonet
shape, having a rounded lug and throat. This scabbard is in a
blued finish, and appears to have about 95% of the blue remaining.
The clamshell has some wear to the nickel plating, showing some
brass below. The standard bayonet style blade has single fuller,
and appears to have been nickel plated. It is starting to gray
slightly from age. The reverse is marked with the producer’s
name and town, “FM Mattsson/Mora”. There is a brown
colored leather washer. A fine quality constructed item, very
similar to the German style clamshell bayonets.Excellent. $595.00
AXIS #27551C French Air Force Officer's Dagger with Hangers
This Model
1934 French Air Force Officer Dagger is complete with hangers.
These pieces were worn before the war and after the war, and it
is difficult to tell the vintage, as they were all made the same.
The regulations did not call for an orange grip, as this example
has, but rather a white grip or a black grip. It can be assumed
that possibly the white grip turned to this pleasing color orange,
as it does appear to be made of a celluloid material. The dagger
has all fittings that are squared in nature. The pommel and ferrule
are square style blocks of brass. The crossguard is a standard
straight type, having short quillons with squared off ends. The
orange grip is also rectangular shaped. The scabbard appears to
be of leather covered wood. This wood also has four squared corners.
The leather is in choice condition, being a very fine grain, and
a blue-black color. The center fitting is equipped with an eyelet,
as is the upper fitting, and the original set of black leather
hangers are still attached. This leather is still supple, and
is equipped with squared brass buckles. The lower chape of the
scabbard is a separate brass piece, also having squared corners,
with a square small tip at the bottom. The blade is a high quality
nickel plated example. The blade has a center ridge with double
edge construction. There is also a short ricasso. There are a
few minor age signs in the nickel fitting, but for the most part,
it is in good bright condition. The blade easily grades at excellent
plus. The braid ricasso is stamped with the producer, "Lafayette,
Paris/Depose". A nice looking high quality dagger here.Near Mint. $1,495.00
AXIS #27567C Bulgarian Labor Corps Dagger - Puma
These German
made Labor Corps daggers are very popular with 3rd Reich collectors,
as there was a relationship between King Boris of Bulgaria and
the Führer. The daggers are German made, and are of high
quality. This example can be seen on pages 47 and 48 of the Berger
book, with the exception the book piece does not show the scabbard
symbol of Bulgaria. This hilt has brass mounts. The pommel is
in the shape of a Bulgarian crown, being highly detailed, and
having a small ball on the top. The crossguard features a center
block, which has a silvered seal of Bulgaria on the obverse, and
the rectangular center block on the reverse is stippled. The quillon
arms are most interesting on this dagger. The left example ending
in a detailed lion head, and the right example ending in the shape
of a spade, and depicting a superimposed pick at the center. The
legs are stippled throughout the outward arms. The grip of this
example is most attractive, being a solid celluloid, and being
an orange pumpkin color. The grip is in perfect condition, with
the exception of one small hairliner at the lower obverse rib.
This grip has seven ribs, which run downward from right to left.
The ribs are wrapped with a twisted gilded brass wire. Fine looking
hilt here! The scabbard is a tapering steel base, having upper
rings consisting of overlapping oak leaves with acorns, similar
to those seen on German Naval daggers. The eyelets are plain finished,
and the carrying rings are a roped design. In between the two
carrying bands is a silvered crest, which portrays a mountain
with a ray of sunshine above it. The depiction is bordered with
wheat sheafs. Unfortunately, the lower brass fitting for this
example has gone to time. The blade is a high quality example,
being very similar to a German Naval blade, having dual fuller
construction. It is nickel plated, and the nickel surfaces are
high quality and mirror bright. This blade is in mint condition,
other than normal in-and-out marks. The obverse ricasso area portrays
the seal of King of Boris III, being a crown over the letter “B”,
with Roman numeral “III” at the lower portion of the
letter. On the reverse is the Puma trademark, consisting of a
diamond shape, showing a cat head and the name “Puma”
below. Below the diamond shape is the name of the city where this
dagger was produced, “Solingen”. There is a brown leather
buffer in place. A fine dagger here, which because of the missing
chape fitting, is priced accordingly.Excellent, Plus. $1,995.00
AXIS #22415 Communist Era Bulgarian Dagger with Chain Hanger
This dagger
consists of fine quality gilt fittings. The pommel is squared
off similar to a Russian dagger, as are the up-and-down quillons,
which end in teardrops. The grip appears to be a form of white
plastic or celluloid which has a brass design band running through
the center of both sides. This band is similar to a chain link
design which is traditional for Bulgarian weapons. The scabbard
is a steel shell to which are connected three brass mounts. The
top mount depicts the Bulgarian lion above a rising sun. These
depictions are raised out. On the reverse is a large state building
with a communist star at the top. The center ramp and bottom mount
are plain. Attached to the upper and center mount is a ringlet
style chain with clip in matching brass. This chain link has twelve
ringlets on each end. The brass snap clip is unmarked and has
the chain scabbard similar to a 1st model Luftwaffe snap clip.
The blade is a high quality nickel-plated doubled etched example.
It has a fuller which runs down the length of both sides. There
is also a short ricasso and the blade is protected by a red leather
washer. A good looking example.Excellent Plus. $595.00
AXIS #27570C Swedish Officer's Clamshell Bayonet
This Swedish
Officer Clamshell Bayonet was worn by army officers during the
1940’s. It features a nickel plated bayonet style hilt, having
a Swedish Lion looking to the left as its pommel. This pommel
has a stippled surface throughout. The crossguard is the style
with up-and-down quillon ends. This crossguard also has a stippled
finish. There is a clamshell below, which has a smooth shield
in the center, with stippling around it. These nickeled parts
are in excellent condition. The grip plates are genuine stag horn.
The stag of fairly light tan color, having pleasing grain in the
center areas, and trimmed in the edges to fit. These grip plates
are retained by two small rivets. The bayonet blade has a single
fuller construction, with single edge. The reverse ricasso is
marked with the maker name, “FM Nattsson, Mora”. There
is a brown leather buffer protecting the blade. The scabbard is
a typical bayonet style, with lug and throat. It has a fine blued
finish, and is in near mint condition. Overall a nice bayonet,
resembling the German style and also having German style craftsmanship.Near Mint. $595.00
AXIS #27550C French Air Force Officer's Dagger
This French
Air Force Dagger appears the same as the example shown on page
108 of the Berger book. All of the fittings are of a squared corner
nature, and the white celluloid grip indicates officer status.
These daggers were first introduced in 1934, but they were also
worn after the war. This one looks like it could come from the
1950’s or 60’s. The pommel and ferrule are squared corner
brass fittings. The white celluloid grip is also squared, and
is in perfect condition. The crossguard is a simple device, having
short quillons which have squared tips. The scabbard is made of
a wood base with squared corners. It is covered with a fine grained
dark blue leather, which remains in perfect condition. The wood
shell is fitted with three brass mounts. These mounts are all
of squared shape and they are of gilded brass. The two upper mounts
have plain eyelets and carrying rings. The gilding is nearly 100%
throughout these mounts. The reverse of the upper ferrule has
a small “U” fitting. I believe that this was for use
of a portepee. The blade appears to be a chrome plate type. It
has a center ridge with double edges, and short ricasso. It is
in mint condition. A nice looking example here in top rate shape.Near Mint. $995.00
AXIS #33376 Swiss Army Bayonet
This Swiss Army Bayonet is in pristine condition throughout. It is a WWII vintage example though, as its serial number falls into the category of examples made in 1945. The hilt mounts are an outstanding chrome plate. They are in perfect condition throughout the pommel and cross guard, still having their original brightness. There is a three-pronged spanner nut which holds the bayonet together. The grip plates are a very fine hardwood. This wood has a beautiful grain to it and the finish remains perfect. The grip plates are retained by rivet and spanner nuts. Attached to the cross guard and lower hilt is the original officer’s portepee. This portepee is an off-red color strapping decorated with three lines of white thread. There is a slide of white woven material and the lower stem is connected to the strapping via a wire mechanism. The stem is metal beneath, having a white woven covering and the lower ball is an acorn shape with white large cordlike fabric with a red felt insert. The knot is also in mint condition. The scabbard of this example appears to be a flat black paint. It is possible it is blued, but I think it is paint. The tapered scabbard ends in a square chape. Attached to the scabbard is a leather hanger having a nickel snap clip. The throat of this example is chrome like the hilt pieces. The blade is a beauty, having a center ridge with double edges. It also has a short ricasso which comes to a “v” shape at the center ridge. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the serial number “24622”. On the reverse, there is a maker logo but I do not know what it stands for. The logo appears to be a rifle with fixed bayonet having the letter “n” stamped over the center of the rifle. This bayonet is of absolute highest quality and comparable to the German types.Mint. $795.00
AXIS #32078C Model 1935 Austrian Air Force with Portepee and Hangers
This Austrian Air Force Dagger is quite an attractive piece and is the same as shown on Page 18 of the Berger book, as well as in color on Page 43 of the Fiduran book. The dagger has a bright chrome-like finish. The pommel is shaped in a doorknob figure, having beaded circles and also fitted with a metal loop to accommodate the Austrian portepee. The pommel also has “V” shaped devices going downward to support the grip. The ferrule has similar “V” shaped devices to support the grip and is beaded around the bottom area. The crossguard is also shaped in a “V” design. The crossguards themselves are somewhat rectangular with decorative centerlines on the edges, but the guards are placed on a center area that is rounded, giving the “V” look to the design. In the center of the obverse is a round enamel device, which has a red-pebbled background and a “V” or triangular shaped center. The enameling is still perfect throughout this crossguard area. The grip itself appears to be celluloid. It is an attractive orange color and is almost perfect except for a couple of small chips -- one to the right upper edge and the other to the reverse upper edge where the grip meets the “V” formations. Attached at the upper loop of the pommel is an original Austrian portepee. This portepee appears to be made of a nylon-like, textured material, having decorative lines running the length. At the stem, there is a flat area that has the double-headed eagle embossed with the red, white & red colors of Austria on the bird’s breast. The lower knot is made of yarn-like nylon with a smooth yellow-colored stuffing. This portepee is still in perfect condition and appears to be the same type worn by the Air Force Pilot shown in the Berger book on Page 19. The scabbard is a matching chromed, tubular style, having bands that resemble propellers. This resemblance is on both sides. There are round eyelets with carrying rings. Attached to the rings is an outstanding Austrian Air Force set of hanging straps. These straps have brown leather base and sewn to them is aluminum bullion decorative strapping, having red edges. The buckles are an oval shape, being in brass and plain on the surfaces. The plain surfaced upper snap clip is quite large and has a clip on its reverse. If it had a spring, this has gone to time. The blade of this example is released through a lock button on the reverse crossguard. The blade is a stiletto shape, having a slightly rounded ricasso with a high center ridge forming double edge construction. This blade is still bright, showing only nominal age and easily grading near mint. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the maker name and city, “Zeitler-wien, VIII.” A very fine example here and a difficult dagger to acquire. When the Germans merged with the Austrians in 1938, this Austrian Pilot’s dagger was recalled and the 2nd Model Luftwaffe Officer’s Dagger was its replacement.Excellent Plus, Plus. $4,495.00
AXIS #31819C Gurkha Kukri
This Gurkha Knife was carried by the elite troops coming from Napal to help the British as well as other allies during World War II. This Gurkha knife measures overall about 18 ½ inches. The hilt of the dagger is composed of a steel base with flared pommel and grip plates of hard wood. The grip plates appear to be retained by rivet style hardware. The metal from the hilt continues to form the curved Gurkha blade. This blade has a fuller and a couple of notched teeth towards the ricasso. The blade measures about 13 inches and has the distinctive curve going outward and downward, typical of Gurkha knives. The scabbard appears to be made of a hard, leather-covered, wood base. There are two layers of reinforced leather held together with rawhide at the upper portion of the scabbard. This leather retains the two carrying straps, which are also equipped with buckles. Inserted into the rear throat section of the scabbard are two smaller knives of similar shape and construction. Overall, this piece shows some age and usage, but it appears to be quite old and most likely of WWII vintage. Excellent. $495.00
AXIS #32044C Spanish Hunting Machete of German Manufacture
This Lion Head Machete measures about 27 inches in length and is a massive weapon. The hilt is outstanding, depicting a growling leopard or lion, having lots of handwork to his teeth, fur, brow, ears and mane. This fierce-looking, nickeled, cat is fitted with red faceted eyes, giving him an angry look. The crossguard is a matching nickel type equipped with quillons going upwards and downwards. The quillon ends have fine floral designs on both sides. The grip of this example is slightly bulbous and is larger at the top than the bottom. It is probably a wood base, which is tightly wrapped with silvered, twisted wire. The wire is in excellent condition. There is a silvered, matching ferrule with dueled decorative lines. The blade of this example is a tremendous 20 inches in length, having a Bowie-style end. It has dual fullered construction with a single edge. The blade is beautifully nickel-plated and both sides have frosted hunting etch panels, which are obviously German made. The obverse panel depicts a large stag between two trees with three does eating grass further in the forest glen. The reverse panel depicts a hunter aiming a rifle at a stag and three doe running through the forest. This blade is extremely impressive and these etches are outstanding and in mint condition. The obverse ricasso has a number stamped into its surfaces, “No 515.” Assumedly, this is a model number for this beautiful cutlass. The accompanying scabbard is produced of a brown leather shell, having fine embossed designed resembling leaves on the obverse. There is a nickel upper scabbard fitting that was retained by a staple, but the staple is missing. The same is true of the lower fitting, which curves slightly upward at the end. Both mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather. The upper mount has a fine lug, which is shaped in the head of a woman. This scabbard has a distinctly Spanish look to it. The leather is still in outstanding condition, being sewn up the rear. This is a very handsome hunting weapon that obviously was made in Germany for the Spanish market. A very beautiful thing here that appears to be from the 1920’s or 30’s. Near Mint. $1,795.00
AXIS #30886 Slovak Army Officer Dagger
These fairly
rare daggers are of all nickel construction. The untouched, good-conditioned
hilt is a one-piece unit, with the exception of the grip plates.
The pommel is a two-stage affair, having pebbled backgrounds.
The pebbling extends to the backgrounds of the ferrule. Raised
out of the ferrule is the coat-of-arms of the Slovak State, a
double-style cross. The crossguard arms flair upward. The tops
of the arms are also pebbled, while both edges are grooved. The
grip plates are an off-white, rather greenish material, retained
by two rivets. The obverse plate is perfect, while the reverse
has a minor crack. The scabbard reflects the same pebbled surface,
with dull nickel finish. There is an upper, lower and center fitting
of matching material. The upper and center fittings are equipped
with carrying rings. The blade is pressed into the hilt, and is
not as fine as a German example would be. It is nickel-plated,
and is still in excellent condition. It reflects a center ridge,
double edged design, having short ricasso. This piece is identical
to the one shown in Johnson, Volume 3, Page 323 and 324. Fine
example of a hard-to-find Axis dagger.Excellent Plus, Plus. $995.00
AXIS #30473C Silvered Naval Dirk
This Naval Dirk looks very much like the Russian types except that there is no leather in the scabbard as it is all metal and the parts are silver plated instead of being in gilded brass as the Russian pieces normally are. This dagger overall measures about 15-inches in length. It has a pommel which is rectangular in shape with a doorknob shaped finial at the top. The ferrule repeats the design of the pommel. The crossguard has an upward quillon with teardrop shape at the left and a downwood teardrop shape at the right. The grip is either a bone or ivory showing a fine golden tone and some graining in its surfaces. The all metal scabbard is four-sided in order to fit the blade. It tapers slightly and has designs which tend to give an impression of mounts but there are no mounts on this scabbard. These lines simulate a lower mount as well as a center ramp and upper mount. There are eyelets at the top and the center along with carrying rings. The throat is retained by a flathead screw in the reverse. The scabbard and the hilt mounts have patinated nicely. The four-sided blade is about 10-inches in length. It has nautical themed etched having a crown over an anchor on one side along with a sailing ship theme. On the other side there is also a crown. This crown looks very much like the Bulgarian type. If one studies the Bulgarian crown etched on the little air force dagger it really does look a lot like the one etched in to this blade. The blade is in good condition still being bright with needlelike tip. The original leather buffer is in place. It is interesting to note that in the Glemser IV book on pages 74 and 75 members of the Bulgarian family are seen wearing dirks very similar to this. If nothing else the pictures prove that the Bulgarians did wear daggers with Russian style. A very interesting piece here and could be a key to a serious Russian / Bulgarian naval collector. A very rare item here!Excellent Plus, Plus. $1995.00 (#070811)
AXIS #27653C Bulgarian Model 1951 Army Dagger
This Bulgarian Army Dagger is identical to the example that is shown on color on page 65 of the Fedurin book. The dagger has gilded brass fittings. The pommel is a square like device with a round top that acts as a tang nut. The top has the Soviet star raised out. The ferrule matches the square like design of the pommel having a slight taper to it. There are two brass strips of decorative metal that run across the obverse and reverse grip, they are inlaid into the grip which appears to be made of a white plastic or celluloid. These metal strips have a pigtail like roped look to them. The crossguard is straight having quillons that go upwards on the right and downwards on the left and they are in a teardrop shape. The scabbard of this example is a nickel-plated steel. It is straigit throughout. The steel shell is fitted with gilded brass mounts. There are three of them. The top mount is decorated with a standing lion positioned over a rising sun and on the reverse there is a government style building with a star at its peak. The center ramp and lower mount are plain but they do have a point at the center of the edges where they meet the scabbard shell. The center and upper mount are equipped with smooth eyelets and there is a chain hanger. The hanger consists of a number of matching metal ringlets which are held together with connector tabs. The two chain assemblies are connected to a matching gilded snap clip at the wearing area. The blade of this example is similar to a German naval type except that it has a single fuller instead of dual fullers. It is a double edged style blade with ricasso. The blade is a high quality example having good tip and fine mint nickeled finish. There is a red washer which is in place to protect the blade. A good-looking dirk here of high quality. This dagger measures approximately 14-inches overall.Near Mint. $495.00
AXIS #27645C Thai Naval Officer's Dirk
This Thai Officer's Dirk is quite attractive measuring approximately 16 inches overall. The mounts are in gilded brass. This piece is identical to the example shown in color on page 415 of the Fedurin book. The pommel is in the shape of an elephant’s head facing to the left. The trunk actually forms a small loop which could be used to attach an accoutrement. The detail is fairly nice to the elephant’s head and there is a backstrap that flows downward to the ferrule which is lined and built into the crossguard. The crossguard is straight having a quillon which points upward at the left and one that points downward at the right. The grip is in the form of a ray skin which is white in color and probably a plastic base. The grip is in straight sections numbering nine ribs. Each rib is tightly wrapped with gilded triple wire the center being twisted. The reverse of the ferrule has a push button that releases the blade lock. The scabbard appears to be a metal base shell which is covered with a dark blue black leather. The leather is in perfect condition and has a pleasing grain in its surfaces. The scabbard is fitted with an upper and lower mount of matching gilded brass. These mounts have a scallop design at the area that meets the shell. The scallop design is similar to what we see on a Japanese naval dirk. The upper mount has three raised lines which act as a band and there is an eyelet on either side each equipped with a carrying ring for vertical suspension. These mounts are retained by a dome head screw in the right side edge. The blade of this example is double etched and is in a shape similar to a Japanese naval dirk. The blade has a single fuller which stops at about the center point and then a false edge begins at the upper blade spine flowing to the tip. It is a single edged blade with a false ricasso. The etching is in a floral design on both sides. At the bottom of the obverse etch there is a design which appears to be a temple like building with wings below it. The ricasso area has a design similar to a Jewish six pointed star. An interesting looking piece here. The blade is protected by a leather washer which matches that of the scabbard. This blade is a fairly high quality example. A nice looking dirk here.Near Mint. $495.00
AXIS #27643C Thai Police Officer's Dirk
This Police Officer Dirk from Thailand is done in a chrome or nickel finish, and is identical to the example shown in the Fedurin book on page 418. The pommel is in the shape of an elephant. The elephant is turned to the left and his trunk creates a loop where an accoutrement could be attached. The detail to the animal is quite good throughout. There is a backstrap which is plain and flows downward the length of the grip ending in a matching ferrule with lined surfaces. The crossguard is a thin example having quillons which are extended to teardrop shape, one going upward at the left and the other downward at the right. The grip of this example is probably a wood base covered with a ray skin style material which could be plastic. It is an off-white color with good graining to the skin. The grip is composed of seven straight sections each tightly wrapped with triple wire, the center being twisted. The scabbard is composed of a metal shell with metal mounts. All pieces are matching and the mounts appear to be separately applied, one at the bottom and one at the top. Both of the mounts have scalloped designs where they meet the shell similar to that of a Japanese naval dirk. There is a single band at the upper portion of the scabbard and the band is fitted with an eyelet on the left and the right side which accommodates a ring. This piece was meant to be carried vertically. The throat is flared out and has three rings similar to the carrying band motif. The blade is removed through a push button at the reverse ferrule. The blade is a narrow single etched type having a single fuller. There is a slight false edge at the point end of the blade and the entire blade is high quality nickel plate. The blade is in mint condition. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the capital letters, “SPP” and on the reverse there are the numbers, “40” over “4740”. The original leather washer is in place. This dirk is fairly long measuring approximately 18 ½-inches.Near Mint. $495.00
AXIS #27615C Chained Bulgarian Dagger
I cannot find any references to this dagger in any of the current books, but I am positive that it is of a Bulgarian vintage. It appears to be a dagger made in the 1970’s or 80’s. The pommel has a ball top which funnels outward to a rounded ferrule. The ferrule below matches the rounded area of the pommel, and steps in slightly with a flare where it meets the crossguard. The crossguard itself has the Bulgarian lion heads on each end of the quillons. This design is very similar to the Bulgarian army dagger of the 30’s, with the exception that the quillon arms are much thicker showing lion’s hair going all the way back to the center block. The center block on both sides has a field design with a standing lion, being the symbol of Bulgaria, in the center. There is blackening in the backgrounds to bring out the details of this good looking crossguard. The grip appears to be a round metal variety, being cylindrical in shape and slightly bulbous in the center. The scabbard is a steel shell, which is equipped with functioning upper and center band. These bands are lined and have eyelets which accommodate a long linked chain. The lower scabbard fitting has matching lines similar to the bands, and then tapers downward to a ball. The scabbard shell is a black painted surface. The chain hanger is the style with overlapping links that lay nicely against each other. The two chains gather at a ring at the top, which is equipped with a clip. The clip is a chrome-like item that would connect over the belt area of a pair of trousers. The blade is a bright example, having a center fuller with double edges. It has a short ricasso which blends into the fuller area. The blade of this piece is not marked. This dagger is quite heavy overall, and measures approximately 15 inches in overall length.Excellent Plus. $395.00
AXIS #27642C Polish Model '54 Air Force Dagger
This Polish Air Force Dirk is identical to the example shown in color on page 269 of the Fedurin book. The dagger features chromed fittings throughout, and does show some actual usage. This piece has a pommel that is cylindrical shaped, having a doorknob shaped ball at the top. The pommel displays on the obverse a raised-out Polish Eagle. The ferrule is matching cylindrical shaped at the bottom. It rests over a crossguard that has quillon arms, extending to ends having teardrop shape. The left crossguard arm rises upward and is holed, and the right crossguard arm extends downward in the teardrop shape. The grip of this example is an off-white plastic, which is rounded at both the obverse and reverse, and is oval-shaped on the edges. The scabbard shell is metal and is covered with a black leather, having very fine grain. The leather is sewn up the rear. The leather shows some mild usage scuffs, but there are no cuts or problems. The scabbard shell has three mounts. The mounts are a matching chromed finish, and each has a pointed center where the edge meets the scabbard shell. The upper mount has an enameled diamond applied insignia, which is checkered with red and white boxes. It is equipped with an eyelet and carrying ring, which matches that of the center ramp. The lower fitting tapers downward slightly, and has a ball that acts as its bottom chape. The blade is a double edged type with center ridge. It has a short ricasso that becomes “v” shaped as it meets the center ridge. The tip is still needle-like, and the blade has its bright original nickel finish rating in near mint condition. This blade is stamped on the obverse ricasso, “24242”. The reverse has no stamping and is equipped with a blade lock, that is button operated from the reverse of the ferrule. A nice dagger here! The dagger comes with its original hanging straps. These straps are of a white leather equipped with dark colored metal oval buckles. At the lower portion, there is a matching dark colored metal snap on each strap, and at the upper area the straps are equipped with matching “D” rings, having white leather belt loops. A complete example here, which shows some mild usage.Excellent Plus. $495.00
AXIS #27594C Spanish Air Force Dirk
This Spanish Air Force dirk is quite long, being about 20½” in overall length. The hilt parts are made of a solid brass. This dagger looks very similar to the example shown in the Fedoran book on Page 216, except the book piece is an army, where as this one is an air force. The basic difference seems to be the center part of the cross guard. At any rate, the pommel of this example is a doorknob shape having nice raised decoration which goes around the thicker part of the center area. The top of the pommel has a round knob. The cross guard is quite hefty in the center and has quillon arms which become smaller and go outward for a short distance, ending in a pointed tip. The tip has a raised out design giving them the look of the tip of an air ship. The center portion of the cross guard has an open wing design with a crown over the center area. The reverse of the cross guard has the raised out seal of Spain which is a closed-wing eagle having a crest in its belly. The grip of this example is a tan color celluloid. It is wrapped with brass wire with no attempt to hide the ends. The wire is nice and tight and the grip is in perfect condition. This hilt shows some wear and patination. The scabbard shell is a matching brass. It is dent-free and has two mounts, both of which act as carrying bands. On the obverse, they have a 6-sided figure with floral designs and there is an eyelet that is built-in with a small carrying ring. The lower area of the scabbard has a floral design small panel ending a button shape. Other than these areas, the scabbard is plain. The original portepee is still attached to this scabbard. It is tied in a special knot positioned above the first band. It is a gold bullion cord ending in an acorn shape. The acorn shows quite a bit of fraying at the bottom. The blade is about 16” in length. It is of excellent quality, having a center segment with double edges and a ricasso. This blade is of quality nickel plate and it appears to be in near full mint condition, still with a good tip. The reverse of the blade is etched with a crown over initials which look to be “FTN”. There is also a leather washer which buffers the blade. A good Spanish Air Force here which is probably circa 1950s.Excellent Plus. $550.00
AXIS #27611C Portugese Air Force Dagger
This Portuguese Air Force example looks to have been produced in the 1950s or 1960s. It is overall 15” long. It has a pommel which is shaped like a doorknob having a tip at the top. The cross guard is a heavy type being about an inch and a half wide at the center area, tapering on both sides to quillons which are shaped like seeds. In the center of the obverse cross guard there is a bird which is flying to the viewer’s left. Beneath the bird is a Maltese style cross. On the opposite side of the cross guard, there is a raised out circle with a Maltese style cross in the center. This cross looks a lot like the ones that the pilot ships used to have on them. This mount is of brass construction. The grip appears to be a carved wood type covered with blue-black leather. It has 13 ribs which flow downward from right to left. The leather is tightly wrapped with twisted brass wire. The scabbard is a tube type which has been nickel plated. The throat is flared and built in. There are two carrying bands made of brass. They have squared mounts on the obverse which also have examples of the Portuguese cross. The chape area is a brass mount which has a button-like bottom. The second carrying band appears to be lower than it should be, but when the dagger is carried this positioning was done for balance. There are a couple of mild dings in the scabbard but nothing serious. The blade of this example is a fairly high quality type, being about 9½” in length. It has a ricasso with center ridge and it is double-etched. There is some mild age on the blade but, for the most part, it is bright and in near mint condition. A fairly rare dagger here.Excellent. $995.00
AXIS #27639C Romanian Army Officer's Dirk Model 1968
This Romanian Army Officer's Dirk has a slight resemblance to Russian types but it also has nice, unique designs. It is about 12½” in length. The mounts are all of gilded brass construction. The pommel is a four-sided example having a rounded top which is plain. The ferrule matches the four sides of the pommel. The reverse of the ferrule has a push-in blade lock. The grip appears to be a fancy plastic type having four sides and being bulbous in the center, tapering to both ends. The plastic tries to imitate mother of pearl. It is quite a nice looking grip, although it does appear a bit feminine. The cross guard is a brass style having quillon ends in the shapes of teardrops, the left side going down, the right side going up. The scabbard is of all brass. There is no chape at the end of the scabbard, however, there are two pressed out carrying bands at the upper and the lower. These bands feature overlapping oak leaves with acorns. They are equipped with eyelets and carrying rings. In the center between the two bands is a panel with raised backgrounds. In the center of the panel is the crest of Romania. There is a star on the top of a wheat wreath and inside appears to be some type of a building. This fine scabbard has a throat which is retained by two brass dome head side screws. The blade of this example is about 8” long. It is nice and bright, having outstanding polished surfaces. It has a ricasso which goes outward into a “v” design which extends into the center ridge of the blade. The obverse of the blade is serial number stamped “31398”. There is a blade locking device at the reverse ricasso. Accompanying the dagger is an original set of hangers and Romanian belt. The hanger straps do not seem to have hooks on the end, but this is also the way they are shown in the Fedoran book on Page 320. He also shows a dagger identical to this example.Near Mint. $450.00
AXIS #27630C Hungarian Officer's Award Dirk
This Hungarian Officer's Award Dirk was apparently adopted in 1992 and was given to Hungarian officers for long excellent service. The dagger measures about 16” overall. It has brass mounts. The pommel is in the shape of a snail shell having a curl design to the raised lines in the center. The cross guard has more of these curl designs which go around the extended quillon arms and come back again to form a “v” shape in the bottom of the cross guard. The same is true on the reverse. There is a Hungarian seal stamped into the center of the obverse cross guard. It appears as though there was an applied or glued seal here but it has gone to time. The grip is a bulbous style which narrows at the top and bottom area. It is of wood or plastic and is a black color. The scabbard is of wood base, having fine leather covering. The leather work is done quite well and in perfect condition. The carrying bands have the same style raised curls as the cross guard. There are lined eyelets with plain carrying rings. The lower chape fitting also repeats this raised curl design. The blade is a double-etched variety having a short ricasso that comes to a rhombic tip. This blade is in mint condition throughout and has a fine brown leather washer which is deep within the cross guard recesses. The cross guard is the type which goes over the scabbard throat and seals the blade. A good looking dagger here which is identical to the example shown on Page 98 of the Fedoran book.Near Mint. $550.00
AXIS #28460C Croatian Air Force Dagger - Braca Knaus, Zagreb
This Croatian Air Force dagger is in nice condition. These Croatian daggers have a great style to them, and I personally am a fan. This dagger has nickel plated white metal hilt fittings. The pommel is in the round circle design, and on the obverse it has the initials “NHD”. Around the initials is a twisted roped design. On the reverse, the center area is plain, but has the roped design. The crossguard depicts a narrow eagle with outstretched wings. The bird looks to the viewer’s left, and the detail is quite good on this bird. The same design appears on both sides. The grip is a white celluloid. It shows some age in the surfaces, giving it a creamy look. The obverse is in perfect condition, whereas the reverse has a couple of hairline cracks at the upper area, as well as one at the bottom area, but there are no fractures or problems. The scabbard is a matching silvered finish, and there is a pebbled panel in the center area. Above the pebbled area there is a design a called a “triplet”. Below are a number of circles with star-like devices in the center. The circles run downward, getting smaller as they descend. These patterns are called triplet and trefoil. The scabbard is the same on the obverse and the reverse. There are twin eyelets and carrying rings that are fitted to the right side of the scabbard. The blade of this example is the nicest one I have seen. Usually, these blades are quite crude and rusty. In this case, the blade is a beauty having a nickel plated finish. The finish is excellent and still mirror bright. The maker name and town are visible on the ricasso, “Bracca Knaus, Zabreg”. This is a good collectable example here.Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,995.00
AXIS #28462C Bulgarian Labor Corp Dagger
This Bulgarian Labor Corps dagger was made in Bulgaria, and is not a German made piece. Because of this, it is somewhat crude compared to the Solingen produced pieces that I have had in the past. It is on about the same par as the piece that is shown in the Berger book, on page 48. Also, there is a piece shown in the Russian Fedurin book, which also compares with this example, except the Fedurin piece is missing the leather on the scabbard. The fittings of this dagger are composed of brass metal. The pommel has the shape of a regal crown, and it is fairly well detailed, having fleur-de-lis that runs around its center area. The crossguard is in the shape of a lion’s head quillon at the left side, and a shovel at the right side. The shovel has a superimposed pick in the center of the shovel. At the crossguard center block, there is a Bulgarian Crest featuring two lions holding onto the edges of a shield, with a crown on top of it. The detail to this crest is not very good, but there is enough there to make out the depiction. The reverse center block is plain with a rectangular raised figure. There is a flared ferrule part above the crossguard that accepts the bottom grip area. The grip itself appears to be a painted wood base. It features seven ribs, which descend from right to left. The grip is wrapped with a twisted brass wire. Some of the original white paint is beginning to flake, and I would say this paint is about 80% to 85%. The scabbard shell is most likely a steel base. It is covered with a blue-black leather which is original. This leather is still in good condition, having no cuts or problems. The area between the two upper bands has an inverted heart shape device that depicts the sun over mountains, which is the Bulgarian Crest. The bands on either side are matching brass, and they roughly depict oak leaves. The eyelets are smooth, and the carrying rings have a roped design. The lower chape depicts sprigs of oak leaves and acorns, which run its length. The blade of this example is slightly more narrow than a German blade, but is has the same shape with center segment and double edge construction. The tip is still needle-like. This blade is nickel plated and is still quite bright, having a couple of minor age spots, but nothing bad. This blade grades in near mint condition. There is a leather blade buffer, which protects it. Overall, not a bad conditioned dagger, but being somewhat crude compared to those produced by Germany.Excellent. $995.00
AXIS #19280 Royal Yugoslavian Dagger
This example
shows overall carrying time, but no abuse. It appears identical
to the example shown in the Berger Book, Page 263. The stylized
brass pommel has beaded designs and gives the impression it is
an open finials design, but it is solid material throughout. The
matching crossguard is an up and down design with quillons ending
in ball designs. The grip is a wood based style, having eleven
ribbed sections running downward right to left. The surface is
painted a lighter brown color. Some of the paint is missing from
wear, but still rates about 85%. The grip is wrapped with single
twisted aluminum wire. The scabbard shell has a textured raised
look which represents overlapping oak leafing. The shell is fitted
with three brass mounts. They have scalloped edges where they
meet the shell. Both the upper and center examples have dual rows
of overlapping oak leafing. The leaves extend to the round eyelet
center areas. The upper mount also has a silvered Yugo two-headed
crowned eagle with crest in his stomach. This design is applied.
The lower mount is plain, ending in a ball chape. These fittings
are retained with headless, flush-mount brass screws. The blade
is removed with a push-button release positioned in the center
reverse of the guard. The blade is a fine quality nickel-plated
example, remaining in mirror bright condition. This near full
mint blade has a center ridge with double edges and short ricasso
design. The obverse ricasso portrays an etched Yugo eagle, while
the reverse is etched with a cross design containing cyrillic
writing of the producer name, and with a further Yugo eagle in
the center. The brown leather blade buffer is in place. A good
sound example.Excellent Plus. $695.00
AXIS #18052 Model 1941 Croation Army Dagger - Braca Knaus, Zagreb
This example
reflects nickel plating over what is probably brass base metal.
The pommel is a circular shape, reflecting a roped border design
on both faces. The interior of the obverse pommel face has the
raised letters, "NHD", which stood for the Independent
State of Croatia. The crossguard features a center block design
of three connected roped interlocks. The crossguard quillons are
also decorated with raised roped designs on the upper and lower
edge borders. The quillon ends curl downward. The horizontally
placed, ribbed grip consists of eight sections. It appears to
be a celluloid type with a plaster fill. The obverse is totally
perfect. The reverse has a couple of minor hairliners at the upper
and lower area, and a very small surface chip at the second rib
from the top, but none of these are major in any way. The scabbard
is straight throughout. The seam extends down both sides where
the two scabbard shell halves were braised together. The upper
portion depicts interwoven roping matching that of the center
block. The center panel has a pebbled pattern design. The lower
scabbard portion depicts a series of ten descending sized roped
circles, each of which enclose a raised star design. The upper
carrying ring and eyelet are in place. The lower example is missing
- easy to make a new one, though, as they are just made from standard
metal rod stock. The blade shows quite a bit of age discoloration
in the surfaces, but no pitting. Rates at less than excellent,
though. It is a double-edged variety, having center ridge construction.
There is a short ricasso. The maker name and location is stamped
into the obverse ricasso, "Braca Knaus/Zagreb". The
original leather washer has gone to time, leaving a minor blade
shoulder gap - also easy to fix. A good starter piece or something
for the more budget-minded Axis collector.Excellent Minus. $850.00