The Hunting and Forestry organizations under the German monarchy were often controlled by aristocrats and well-heeled businessman. They were generally not organizations habituated by the common man. The purposes were generally formed for the conservation of game and forestry. Elaborate hunts were great occasions for the well-heeled, while the ladies used the hunting lodges for match-making and gossip. The cutlasses of these Imperial organizations were often extremely ornate, or they could also be utilitarian, made to perform the final killing thrust on game. Both types were often owned by a single individual. Many examples were used strictly for dressing up the beauty of a hunting/forestry uniform.

The German Hunting Association (Deutsche Jägerschaft) was headed by Reich Hunting Master Hermann Göring. The organization was formed to enforce the hunting regulations surrounding the advancement of conservation. The organization was a "must" for Germans interested in advancing their careers in business or the NSDAP. The Hunting Association was much like a country club membership today. The cutlasses worn by the organization were often quite elaborate. The hilt was silver with a stag grip. The scabbards were composed of green leather shells with silvered mounts. The cutlass blades were usually etched with hunting scenes. The insignia of the organization - a stag with a swastika between its antlers and the initials DJ - graced the grip of the cutlass.

The German Rifle Association was one of the last organizations to be nationalized by the NSDAP. The organization consisted of many shooting and target clubs positioned throughout the Reich, some centuries old. Members were all volunteers. The cutlass was a long example. It consisted of nickel plated hilt fittings with clamshell having the insignia of the organization - essentially a target within a rounded disk having black enameled organization name. The grip was an off-white, celluloid-over-wood affair. The scabbard was black leather with nickeled mounts. The long blade was double-etched, featuring forestry/hunting scenes and usually a target somewhere in the motif.

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1. CUTLASS #31165 Deluxe 50th Anniversary Dedicated Forestry Cutlass – Alcoso

   This beautiful Forestry Cutlass is of the highest quality that could be produced at the time. It is a Third Reich presented piece having a date of 1934. The gilded brass hilt is really quite lovely to examine as it has outstanding relief to the motif throughout. The “D”-guard is fashioned with hooves at both ends. But in the areas of in between there are overlapping oak leaves which are positioned on both sides of the “D”-ring traveling from the top of the upper hoof throughout the crossguard and to the bottom quillon of the lower hoof. At the central area of the guard there is a crossed ribbon depiction. These oak leaves are still extremely crisp and have outstanding hand enhancement throughout. The ferrule of this piece has fine lined ribbing and the central example has a vertical fluted decoration running completely around the ferrule providing a fine contrast with the smooth ribbed areas. At the lower is a beautiful clamshell device which at the right side has an upward pointing quillon with a curve and at the left side the quillon goes up much higher and sweeps to the left with a curved end. This clamshell has the effect of scales cut into its surfaces but I believe it really is some sort of a floral design – quite beautiful indeed! The grip plates of this piece are of genuine ivory. They have toned to a golden color, the reverse being darker than the obverse. In addition to the beautiful color there is a fine graining in the surfaces which tends to swirl about the in place decorative acorns. On both sides there are matching gilded acorns with two leaves at the top and a fairly long stem. Like the rest of the piece these acorns also seem to have extra handwork, particularly at the caps and the veining of the leaves. These grip plates and acorns are as nice as you will ever see. Absolute top, top craftsmanship and finest of materials here! The scabbard shell is of black leather. This leather is still in first rate condition showing little age and having the usual twin line decoration on both sides. The reverse is sewn up the center area in the usual manner. The scabbard mounts are of a fine gilded brass exactly matching the hilt. These mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather. The upper mount is plain having an acorn / lug which is very detailed and hand-enhanced. The lower mount is plain on the reverse and on the obverse has an extremely decorative panel. The panel depicts hunting implements consisting of a game bag with shot gun, horn and Hirschfanger. There are also oak leaves which surround the depiction. At the top area of the scabbard mount there is a small panel featuring oak leaf sprigs. These mounts are in perfect condition and are held in place with a staple in the usual manner. It is possible to see that there is a number beneath the staple. As beautiful as the outside of this cutlass is, the best part though is the blade. The blade is in mint condition and is of a 13-inch length. This blade is of absolute highest quality and is triple etched. On the obverse there is a panel in the center. The panel depicts the purpose and date of the piece in three raised lines, “Zum 50 jährigen Dienstjubiläum / 1. IV. / 1884-1934”. This dedication translates to, “Given for 50 years of outstanding service, April 1 1884-1934”. There is a darker background to highlight these letters in relief. They are done in the old Gothic type script and are very impressive. Flanking the center panel is a small scene of a deer and a dove under two trees. At the ricasso area and at the end there is a floral scene which encompasses two game birds in the grass. The reverse of the blade has a very similar motif and the panel in the center has the name of the presenter of this cutlass. It is in relief, “Graf Schulenburg- / Wolfsburg”. The presenting man’s name was Count Schulenburg-Wolfsburg”. Flanking the center panel at the ricasso area is a dog attacking a wild boar under a tree and at the end there is a howling wolf beneath a couple of trees in a forest. The spine features oak leaves running the length. This blade is in full mint condition and on the reverse has the stamped logo of the Alcoso firm, “ACS”, interspersed within a set of scales. The original off-red felt buffer is in place. Accompanying the cutlass is a fine green dress portepee. This portepee has green textured strapping with stem and slide featuring green “V” weave with bullion background. The round style ball has a cap with green and gold yarn-like material with a gold lower ball. The stuffing in the ball is green. Getting to the elite of this cutlass and its importance as a collectible is the fact that the original presenter and the recipient have been researched by professional Rob McDivitt. In looking through the information uncovered by Mr. McDivitt it seems that Count Guenther Reichsgraf von der Schulenburg-Wolfsburg was the owner of a large estate in which it was necessary to have a forester to keep track of the health of the vegetation as well as the animals within. Schulenburg was in the imperial cavalry and was a war hero during the Great War and stayed attached to the cavalry all his life having died in 1985. The cutlass was presented to the forester Robert Schomburg by Schulenburg for 50 years of faithful service. The presentation in April of 1934 is accompanied by a photo of this event. In the photograph the forester, Schomburg, is pictured with his wife and family along with the owner of the estate and his staff making the presentation. Additionally, there is a photograph of Count Schulenburg on his horse. He appears to be in his seventies in this photograph. It is interesting to note that when the forester Schomburg died the armor cutlass was turned over to his son. Unfortunately, the estate was taken over by allied troops and the cutlass subsequently disappeared explaining its surfacing in the United States some 60 years later. There is still research that can be done on this elegant cutlass as well as with the aristocratic family as Schulenburg’s son still is alive and lives on the estate. This is a grand opportunity to own a very beautiful and important historical German forestry cutlass. This piece could easily be the highlight of a hunting forestry collection. This is a true art form with great prospects for additional research.

   Near Mint. $6,495.00(#082510)

2.  CUTLASS #30858 National Rifle Association Cutlass - Siegfried Waffen

   The Pack version of the shooting cutlass is not seen very often, not that any of these cutlasses are around much. The small shooting associations which were formed in villages and towns throughout Germany apparently did not have a large base that wanted to buy the new revised cutlass produced by the Nazis. Apparently the old imperial and Weimar types served the purpose so there were not many of these shooting cutlasses sold. The Pack version appears in their catalog and it is identical to this example. If you do not have a Pack catalog you can look inside Johnson’s Volume II on page 174, lower and see an identical cutlass to this example. Even the etch that is shown on the blade in the catalog piece is the same as this example. The hilt fittings are the traditional nickel over white metal base. The pommel has the fluted top and has a screw which also acts as a tang nut. The area around the base of the pommel fitting is plain. The ferrule below has a number of decorative rings. The nickel plating is thinning slightly on the obverse surface of this ferrule. The crossguard is a plain style in the center which has two narrow arms which go outward, the left side pointing upward and the right side pointing downward. Each of these arms has a quillon end in the shape of an acorn. The caps of these acorns look to have been hand finished. The plating remains excellent on the crossguard. Below the crossguard is a clamshell device. The clamshell has a typical motif which we see on all of these consisting of an oak leaf wreath on the left side and a laurel leaf wreath on the right side. In the center is pinned the national rifle association insignia. This insignia has the name of the organization in black enamel around the border. The name is “Deutscher Schützen – Verband”. The words on either side of “Deutscher” have matching black enamel swastikas. In the center there is a black enamel bird with a white target on his breast. As mentioned above, this insignia is pinned into place. The grip of this example is the usual variety being a wood fluted base which has been coated with white celluloid. As is usually the case there is a stress crack which developed on this example. The crack runs around the very upper portion of the grip. There is just a miniscule amount of material that is missing. Most of the cracks develop more toward the center so this one is not too bad. At the center area there is a pair of crossed shooting rifles which are finished in gilded brass and have nice detail. The scabbard of this example is much better made than most of them we see. Normally the scabbards consist of a leather shell. Due to the length a lot of times the shell tends to get kinked. In the case of this example the shell is metal below and is covered with black leather. The leather has the traditional twin line decoration and is sewn up the rear. The viewer does not realize that there is metal below until the scabbard is picked up and its weight and hardness are the giveaway. This leather is in perfect condition. Applied to the scabbard shell are two matching nickel-plated mounts. These mounts have scalloped ends where they meet the shell. They are retained with staples. The upper mount is equipped with an oval shaped lug which is matching nickel-plated. The blade of this example measures 15 ½-inches in length. It has a matte style finish and is beautifully double etched. As mentioned above the etch is identical to what is shown in the catalog on page 174. The obverse area depicts a leaf like plant with rays around it. Further up there is a target with crossed rifles behind it. Next is a scene of a couple of stags resting in a forest glen which is decorated with floral treatment on either side. On the reverse the same sort of floral treatment with sunrays is at the ricasso. Next is shown some hunting implements consisting of a rifle, cutlass, and game bag. Further down there is a stag jumping across a fence in a wooded glen and the blade is finished with floral motif. These shooting cutlass normally do not have etching on the spine as is the case with this example. The reverse ricasso is matching etched with the Siegfried Waffen trademark. This trademark has a horseshoe shape image between the two words which spells out the name of the company and the hammering Siegfried is inside. The original green felt washer is in place. A very high quality original shooting cutlass produced by a rarely seen maker for this pattern.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,895.00

3.  CUTLASS #30834 Folding Personalized/Dedicated Stag Hunting Knife - Geco Solinge

   This folding hunting knife is extremely well made and was available as a private purchase item during the period. Some times we see these hunting knifes used as trench knives during World War I. This particular example has outstanding antler stag grips. These grip plates show lots of age to their attractive brown and tan grains and the edges have turned a golden color from age. These grip plates are retained by a total of six small rivets three along the top and bottom of each edge. There is a nickel shield mounted on the center surface of the upper plate and it is beautifully engraved with the original owner’s monogram, “JD”. The letters are double spaced and are intertwined. The blade of this example folds inward and is released by way of a spring style catch just above the top grip plate. As is the case with this style knife the blade is quite longer than the grip. This extra length was to be used to theoretically skin an animal while holding onto the grip plates and then when the blade was fully extended it could have been used for the final kill. Overall this impressive hunting knife measures about 12 ½-inches and the blade when fully extended is over 7 ½-inches. The blade itself has a single ridge which runs through the center area with a bowie style tip having a false edge which runs about one quarter of the way back at the top. The blade has its original factory sharpening and it is still bright showing minor scratching and overall age. This blade though still grades easily at excellent. On the two ferrule areas there is a birthday dedication from one friend to another as this hunting knife apparently was a present between two good hunting buddies. The engraving is extremely small to fit into the space provided and needless to say was done with great skill. It is a marvel to study this engraving under a loop as it is extremely well done. The obverse side has the man’s name who gave the hunting knife engraved, “Alfred Wendel”. On the ferrule of the other side is the engraving, “s / l. / Just Dillgardt / zum Geburtstag / 8.4.1938”. Accompanying the hunting knife is a leather scabbard. The upper portion of the scabbard which would have had some sort of a metal mount has gone to time. The lower mount though is still in place being matching nickel, having scalloped edges and being staple held. The leather is a brown color and is still in relatively good condition. This must have been a very beautiful instrument when it was originally presented between these two friends. A great knife to add to an advanced hunting forestry collection.

   Excellent. $495.00(#082310)

4. CUTLASS #30596C Imperial Long Hunting Cutlass

   This imperial long hunting cutlass appears to me to be a piece that was actually worn and used for the hunt not just a dress up weapon. It is a long cutlass which measures overall in the scabbard about 24-inches. The hilt looks very similar to a standard Hirschfanger except that the stag grip is slightly longer than norm. The mounts are a steel base type which have a blue finish not being silver. The pommel has the standard umbrella style upper cap with a lower side area having two rows of twin decorative rings. Atop the pommel is an acorn device which acts as a tang nut. The ferrule also has dual ring decoration. The crossguard has a plain center block and has quillon arms which are in the shape of deer’s hooves going upward at the left side and pointing downward at the right. Below this crossguard is a standard clamshell having good fluting. The large grip is a beautiful piece of stag which features colors of tan on the upper grains and dark browns on the lower grain and also in the recesses. It has a great antique look. The scabbard shell on this example is of black leather. It has the line decoration on both edges of both sides and there is also a built in pouch to make room for a skinning knife. The scabbard mounts are blued steel types matching the hilt mounts. The upper mount has the opening for the skinning knife and on the outside there is an acorn which doubles as a lug nut. The lower mount has twin line decoration and a chape button. Both mounts have scallop designs where they meet the leather. This leather shows mild age but it is still supple. Contained within the skinner pouch is an interesting skinning knife, the first of which I have seen. This knife does appear to be original to this piece despite the fact that it does not have a stag handle but rather the handle is made of a very hard wood. Extending out of the wood handle is a very odd shaped blade. This blade seems to have a center ridge that rises high with tapered double edges. On the reverse the blade is completely flat. This design was made so that the blade would fit into the pouch area of the scabbard. The blade, although a substantial weapon, does show age and rust on both sides. The blade of the cutlass is 16-inches long. It is a single edge slab side type having ricasso. The blade has triple etching. The edges are growing faint but they are still all there. The blade overall is gray and has been sharpened during the period as this was a knife that was indeed used for the hunt. The etches are positioned in a perpendicular rather than horizontal manner. The obverse blade depicts a hunter standing with rifle and dog on the start. After this is a panel featuring a horn, hunting bag, a sword, etc. The final etch at the end of the panel depicts a doe and a stag beneath two fir trees. The opposite etch also depicts a hunter with dog and he is blowing his hunting horn. In the center is a stag head over a game bag with horn. At the upper panel is a large rabbit standing on his hind legs. The spine has oak leaf etches. It is a shame that this blade is not nicer but than again it is what it is. This blade is unmarked. If you are looking for an imposing hunting Hirschfanger that truly was used and stood up to its name than this is a good example.

   Excellent. $995.00

5. CUTLASS #30599C Weimar Period Hunting Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

   This Hirschfanger was produced during the 1920s and all of the mounts are a gilded brass. Most of the gilding has worn off over the years but there is still some in the protected areas. The pommel is a nice looking mount having a nest of oak leaves which runs around the upper circumference and rises upward in the center. There is an acorn at the top which also acts as a lug nut. The sides of the pommel have dual beaded rings which run around the circumference and between the rings is subtle line designs. The ferrule below has three beaded rings decorating its surfaces. The crossguard is plain in the center and has interesting quillons having the head of a doe looking downward on the right side and the head of a stag with full rack on the left side looking upward. The starting areas of these quillon arms are oak leaves and acorns. This must have been quite beautiful when the Hirschfanger was new. Below the crossguard there is a clamshell in a rounded spade shape. Inside the shell are raised out depictions of dogs trying to bring down a very large boar. Surrounding the scence are trees, sticks, branches and leaves. The grip is a beautiful stag antler which is turned slightly to the left and also is quite large at this point. The antler was obviously chosen for this piece though as the pommel just about fits it exactly with little cutting. The same is true of the ferrule below. The antler has a pleasing tan and darker brown shades throughout. The grip is decorated with leaf style acorns being three in all which run downward on the obverse grip. Not a bad hilt here! The scabbard leather shell is still in good shape and supple. It is black in color and is decorated with twin lines which run the length of both sides. The scabbard mounts are gilded brass having scalloped decoration where they meet the leather. The upper mount is plain with a detailed acorn which acts as a lug. The lower scabbard has a raised decoration on the obverse. It depicts a hunting dog searching within some high reeds and below him is a hunting bag with game birds hanging from it. The lower mount is retained by a staple and the upper mount has two small nails which may be replacements – if they are they were done long, long ago. The 13-inch blade is a slap side having a ricasso and single edge. It is a plain blade having no etch decoration. There are a number of rust spots which are postioned throughout the blade and there are also signs of some old sharpening. This blade is beginning to turn slightly gray but it might clean up with a little effort. On the reverse is the 1920s trademark consisting of a squirrel within a single oval. Below the squirrel are the letters, “C.E.”. The original brown felt buffer is in place. Not a great example here but a good display model and certainly this was once a quality hunting example.

   Good Plus. $895.00

6. CUTLASS #30595C Imperial Long Forestry Cutlass - Mohr & Speyer

   This imperial cutlass is made of fine gilded brass fittings. Most of the gilding has left the mounts but there are small traces of it if you look closely. The shape of the hilt is the standard cutlass type having a D-guard at the left which ends at the top in the shape of a deer’s hoof and after it travels through the crossguard center it ends the same. The ferrule of this piece has three raised out decorative lines. Below the crossguard is a clamshell which is fluted on the top and has a long leg coming out the left end which rises upward and ends in a teardrop. The grip plates of this example are genuine ivory. They have toned to a very beautiful golden color and have grained surfaces throughout. This grip plates are most attractive. They are decorated with three oval matching brass bosses. These bosses are in good condition throughout. A good looking hilt here. The scabbard is composed of a leather shell which may have been recovered a few years ago. The leather covering is a smooth black style and it is in near perfect condition which would not ring through considering the overall age of this piece. The leather covering though is well done and is sewn up the rear. The scabbard mounts are matching substantial brass types. They are plain throughout with virtually no design on the upper example having a round boss which acts as a lug. These scabbard mounts have rounded shape where they meet the scabbard and they are retained on the reverse with small screws. This long cutlass measures 23-inches in the scabbard. The blade is a 16-inch long example having single etch design with ricasso. This blade is triple etched. The etch designs are still prominent but the blade is beginning to turn a gray color. On the obverse the etch portrays a deer jumping over a fence in the center being followed by two dogs that are barking at it. There is a fine forest and grass around the scene and before and after the etch there are floral designs. The reverse etch features a chamois in the center having a fine look on its face with curved horns at the top of its head. There are floral designs on either side of this animal and also a hunting bag with hunting implements near the ricasso. The spine is laurel leaf etched and has the retail store’s name and location raised out, “Mohr & Speyer Hoflieferanten Berlin”. An older piece here which is still in collectible condition and would show nicely on your wall.

   Excellent. $895.00

7. CUTLASS #30601C Imperial Forestry Subordinate's Cutlass

   This subordinate’s cutlass is fairly long measuring overall about 20-inches. The hilt section is basically standard having all brass construction with stag grip plates. The brass on this example has not beencleaned in many years and it has toned a darker patination having a plum color. The “D”-guard is decorated with twin lines and it ends at the top in a deer’s hoof and ends the same way at the bottom where it passes through the crossguard. The ferrule area is lined for decoration. There is a clamshell below which has good raised out fluting and it has an upward pointing arm area which ends in a teardrop shape. The grip plates are a nicely toned stag having golden edges and brown and tan graining in the center. These plates are in perfect condition and have a fine eye appeal about them. They are decorated with three leafless style acorns which appear on each side. The scabbard shell is a black leather type having twin lines which decorate both edges and it is sewn up the rear. This leather shows quite a bit of edge but it still is in good supple condition. The scabbard mounts are also plum colored brass and they are plain having line decoration and scalloped edges where they meet the leather. The upper scabbard mount has an acorn which is nice and detailed and doubles as a lug nut. There is a frog attached to this which appears to be a bayonet style black leather frog. This frog is in good condition. The blade is a 14-inch long example having triple etch. The blade has turned gray a long time ago and it is also period sharpened but not badly. The obverse etch, although getting fairly light, depicts a boar at the ricasso and in the center there is a panel of a stag chasing two doe. The panel ends with a bird tweeting on an oak branch. The reverse blade features the etch of a hunter kneeling while aiming at a stag and doe in the forest. There is also a bird image which ends this etch. It is pretty light though and is very hard to see. The spine appears to have had an oak leaf or laurel leaf decoration. The original off-red felt is in place. A good forestry cutlass to put up on the wall just to admire its fine shape and antiquity.

   Good. $795.00

8. CUTLASS #30547 Deluxe Short Forestry Cutlass – Unmarked WKC

   This is a very interesting cutlass that was apparently ordered specially, as it is a combination of WKC’s Model 92 and Model 1051. The piece is identical to the 1051 model, except for the clamshell. This piece, though, is identical to the No. 1051, except for this clamshell. The hilt is an outstanding example having gilded brass mounts. The “d” guard is decorated with overlapping oak leaves and acorns and ends in a deer’s hoof. Where it goes through the cross guard area, it has a crossed ribbon. After this, there is a short quillon area and once again, it ends in a deer’s hoof. The ferrule above has four lines and in the center there is a band section which has lines running perpendicular through its circumference. These lines were all applied by hand. The clamshell is the type that depicts a pointing dog positioned in a forest glen. The right side of the clamshell has a small swirl quillon, whereas, the left side example also has a longer quillon ending in a swirl. The gilded surfaces throughout this hilt are about 85% - 90%. The grip plates are of genuine ivory. They have toned nicely to a golden color and both are in perfect condition. This piece has the leaf style acorns which are the large to small variety that we only see on WKC pieces. The top acorn is the largest and the lower acorn is the smallest. This provides a great effect to the eye. The scabbard is formed of a black leather shell. This shell shows little age, being sewn up the reverse and being decorated with twin lines on both the obverse and the reverse. The scabbard mounts are gilded brass, exactly matching those of the hilt. These scabbard mounts are quite elaborate, having a decorated lug on the upper mount which resembles a gold nugget. Actually, it is a series of overlapping oak leaves that really does give the nugget effect. The lower mount is stamped with crossed sprigs of oak leaves at the bottom panel and the panel above has one sprig of oak leaves and acorns. These panels are separated by a series of two twin lines. The reverse of the fitting is plain and the chape is the style that is pearled around a lower ball. These beautiful mounts are retained by staples and it is possible to see the number “70” beneath the staples. The outstanding short blade is only 9½”. It is triple-etched and has its full factory brightness. Other than a couple of minor age marks on the reverse ricasso, this blade is still in mint condition. It has 100% of the silver backgrounds highlighting the raised etch. The obverse panel depicts the running hunter with shotgun in one arm and cutlass in the other. He is chasing a wild boar which is in the process of shaking off a number of dogs. There are animals flying all over in this depiction. The detail to the trees, leaves and grass around the action is outstanding. The reverse blade is the style which depicts the kneeling hunter firing at a stag who is in chase of a doe as both jump over a falling tree. Once again, the shrubbery, fir trees, grass and oak leaves really look good on this etch. The etch is so crisp you can see the determination in the hunter’s face as he aims his rifle. The upper spine is nicely etched with what looks to be laurel leaves. There is no maker mark on this blade but as indicated above, this piece was made by WKC. There is a thick brown leather washer in place which appears original to this fine cutlass. If you are a hunting forestry collector, I am sure that you do not have this combination. I do not remember seeing this mix of WKC pieces in the past. It shows you, though, that the factories would virtually do anything that a customer required. Assumedly, there would have been an extra charge levied for this piece. An outstanding cutlass here and in nice condition to boot.

   Excellent Plus Plus. $2,895.00

9. CUTLASS #30457C Presented Shooting Prized Cutlass

   This shooting cutlass is a high-quality item in first class condition. The trademark on the reverse of Alcoso is vintage of about 1935 or 1936. The cutlass is produced with a hilt of silver mounts and stag grip. The pommel is a conventional style having umbrella-like struts that go outward from a center lug. The center lug has the tang running through the top and it is peened over. The edges of the pommel have three sets of decorative lines that run around the circumference. The ferrule nicely matches the decorative lines of the pommel. There are four sets of these. Beneath the ferrule is an up-and-down style cross guard which is depicted in the shape of hooves on the quillon ends. Below this is a fluted clamshell. The stag grip is a real beauty, having deep brown and tan tones with very high grains. The obverse of the stag is decorated with three silver acorns. These acorns are the type without leaves and they are all present and all in beautiful condition. The silvering of this piece is of highest quality and it appears to have been cleaned not too long ago and is in mint condition throughout. The scabbard shell is quite a long black leather example, being decorated with twin lines on the length of both edges. The reverse center is sewn up. The mounts are matching silvered plain types having scalloped edges where they meet the leather shell. The upper mount is decorated with an acorn which acts as the lug. These mounts are staple held. It is interesting to note that this narrow shooting association scabbard, for once, has the original frog. This frog is more narrow than a bayonet frog and is a cherished item, in my opinion. The frog is of a black leather in mint condition being a deluxe type having a rivet in the center of the reverse. There is also a shooting troddel. This troddel is made of cotton and the strapping is textured throughout. There is a green silk slide and stem and below there is a large acorn with matching fabric stuffing. A really fine frog and troddel here. The blade is a typical hunting cutlass type measuring 16” in length. It is double-etched and as is usually the case with these blades, it is polished crosswise up to about 4” and then it is polished horizontally. I do not know why we see these contrasting finishes on these shooting blades, but it must have something to do with the extreme length. At any rate, the obverse blade depicts a floral design at the ricasso and then a target with a set of rifles behind it. In the center area, there is a forest glen with two stags beneath trees and there are also some fences in the distance. The etch finishes with a floral motif. The reverse etch depicts more floral scenes off the ricasso and a hunting grouping of shotguns, hunting horns and a game bag. In the center, there is a stag jumping over a fence in a forest glen and the etch finishes with a floral motif. The really interesting part, though, is a three-line presentation etched into the end of the blade. It is “Ehrenpreis/der/Stadt Sodernheim”. This translates to “Honor Prize of the City of Sodernheim”. The reverse section of the blade ending has the word “Opferschiehsem”. This would mean that the hunting cutlass was the prize designated for the best shooter. This is a very nice cutlass that goes back to about 1935.

   Near Mint. $2,995.00

10. CUTLASS #28140 DAF Dedidcated Hunting Cutlass

    This cutlass appears to be a private purchase style example having stag grip plates and massive bowie style blade. The piece measures overall about 15 inches. It is of heaviest metal and of highest quality throughout. The grip plates are antler, very large, and have been shaped to the tang of the cutlass. These plates have a rounded pommel area and they thin slightly on the downward slope and then flare outward in the center area, making for a sturdy handhold. The antler is very beautiful, having attractive brown and tan color tones mixed in the graining. The edges have turned a golden tone and there is also gold tones in the outer edges of the grip graining. There is a hole which has been factory drilled through the center of the grip at the pommel top. Assumedly, this hole would have been used for the tying of a rawhide thong loop or similar effort. At the lower portion of the obverse grip, there is a partial round drilling of the stag. This partial drilling accommodates a cog wheel and swastika device which are the emblems of the Deutsche Arbeit Front. The insignia appears to be made of aluminum, having very crisp teeth to the cog wheel. The inside swastika is a pierced variety and is the mobile type. The surfaces of the swastika are intricately checkered. Behind this insignia on the stag base, there has been applied a red coloring. This, of course, accents the insignia. This coloring appears to have been done prior to the installation of the DAF insignia. Below the stag grip is a simple steel nickel plated up-and-down hunting style cross guard. The quillon ends are in a teardrop shape. The blade of this example is an extremely fine bowie style constructed example. It is 9 inches in length and has a blade edge which accommodates about half of the lower portion of the blade. There is also a short ricasso and consistent with bowie style knives, there is a false edge at the upper area which extends to almost the midway point. This blade is still bright, showing only minor age. On the obverse center area, there is a three-line dedication. The dedication is “In dankbarer Erinnerung/Ernst Bickel, Hannah Freitag,/Peter Schütz, Anne Schütz.” This dedication seems to thank the memory of these four people. It is interesting to note that two of the people are women in this case. For the most part, women are seldom mentioned on Third Reich edged weapons, so, perhaps, these people were connected with the labor unions that would have controlled both male and female personnel under the NSDAP. This piece is one of a kind and absolutely original. The blade also has some minor sharpening, but it is nothing. The scabbard is a leather shell. The shell itself is a darker brown leather which is sewn up the rear. It has a circular throat applied around the top area of the scabbard. Beneath the throat is a lighter color leather hanger application. It is possible that this hanger application was done after the war to replace the original one. I cannot tell for sure, but this lighter color leather does seem to be in a newer state than the leather on the shell. The bottom of the shell is equipped with a nickel plated chape fitting. This fitting is simple in design, having rounded style edges where it meets the leather and a ball at the bottom. A great piece here for those who may collect DAF items or possibly a great piece for future research. It is interesting to me to see the name “Ernst Bickel” on this blade, as most collectors will recognize that name as being a fine SA producer. Perhaps, it is the same individual who may have been connected with the DAF? At any rate, a tremendous cutlass here and a fine piece which would make a great addition to either a hunting or NSDAP collection.

    Mint. $1,995.00

11. CUTLASS #15338 18TH Century German Hunting Cutlass with Skinner and Ivory Grip

    I am sure this Hunting Cutlass should be in a museum. This cutlass surfaced about five years ago in central Pennsylvania. I was lucky enough to acquire it at a MAX show. I have had it for a number of years now, but it is time to pass it on for others to enjoy. The grip of this hunting cutlass is absolutely outstanding and representative of the best carved ivory art of the period. The grip is fashioned of solid ivory. The grip has raised out carved hunting figures throughout each of its five surfaces. The obverse surface features an oak tree on the outer edge. There are two large stags and a resting doe shown in the clearing next to the tree. In the background can be seen some small hills and the steeple of a church within a nearby hamlet. The carved detail to these figures is phenomenal. The left edge shows a pointing dog in a forest scene tracking a large sneering boar. The boar looks very displease with the situation. The manner in which fir trees have been raised out and carved is a great art study. The reverse grip depicts what may be a hunting lodge at the left side, and then there are three deer in the center area, resting next to a stump. The large stag in the picture has a huge rack and great detail. There is a tree and fence next to this animal. The other edge depicts a hunter with his dog stalking a large buck. The backgrounds show hills and wood depictions. The pommel area, which is separated by a decoratively lined silver rim, features a resting stag. The stag is resting on leaves and there are lined designs in the background. I can not emphasize the great work demonstrated on these carvings. Despite some 250 years, the ivory does not show a lot of wear. The lower ferrule matches the silver piece separating the pommel from the grip. The crossguard has straight quillon ends, but has a curved design in the center. The guard is engraved with swirl-like designs. The guard is a black patinated silver. The snake-like designs have gilding applied to the backgrounds. The gilding either was never applied, or has been worn from the reverse of the crossguard, but it does have the same engraved designs. The upper arms of the crossguard have an engraved name that most likely belonged to the original owner. The engravings have white backgrounds, so that they may be read against the patinated blackness. I can not make out the names, but I can make out the word, “Fürst”. I know that this word represents an appointed prince in Germany. For instance, Bismark was ordained a “Fürst”, by Kaiser Wilhelm the First. The Kaiser, in effect, made a noble man out of someone who was not born with a title. This would indicate that this cutlass was owned by a very high ranking personage of the German aristocracy. There is a small clamshell device which is located beneath the center block of the obverse crossguard. This device is round and has sun like rays which go outward from the round beaded border. In the center is a beveled gold coin. The coin depicts a Maltese-like cross. In the center of the cross, is the depiction of Saint Hubertus kneeling before a stag with a cross between its horns. This sign, of course, has been used by German hunters for centuries. It is even used on the German liquor served in bars today known as, “Jagermeister”. Surrounding the Saint Hubertus depiction is the word, “KRAAR SOLN”. I could be wrong about what these letters are, but that’s what it looks like. Above the cross, is a royal crown. On either side of the crown is the date of this gold coin which is, “1750”. Below the cross are the initials, “AK”, which most likely are those of the man that designed the gold coin. The scabbard of this example measures about 15 ½-inches overall. It is a black leather shell which probably has wood beneath. The leather is still in fairly good condition and is sewn up the rear. This scabbard has mounts at the top and the bottom. The leather shell is more bulbous at the top as the upper mount is formed to accept a skinning knife which is still present. This skinner is approximately 7-inches in length. It has a short blade which is only about 3-inches in length and is very sharp. It was meant to do the skinning job not just look good. This blade is in fairly good condition, still retaining its brightness and having a false edge at the top. The blade is stamped with the word, ‘Riefling”. This would represent the manufacturer of this piece, I would think. The grip of the skinning knife is made with antler plates. They too, are in good shape but show some age. The upper mount itself, is a patinated steel example which has engraved designs matching those of the crossguard. The edges which meet the leather have serrated points. The lower mount also has matching decorative designs and the original gilded backgrounds still remain. This mount is scalloped, where it meets the scabbard shell. The blade of this example is 14 ½-inches in length. It shows sharpening and usage being a slab side example. It has no ricasso with a single edge. There is a false edge which comes backwards up the spine to about one-third of the way. This hunting cutlass was obviously meant to be both decorative as well as utilitarian. There are no visible etchings on the blade and it still remains nice and bright. It shows lots of age, but no abuse. This outstanding cutlass is quite impressive and could be the highlight of a hunting / forestry collection. I don’t know how items of this age surface today, or how they made it all these years, but here is your opportunity to really buy something nice for your hunting collection.

    Excellent Plus. $4,725.00

12. CUTLASS #30047 Imperial Hirschfanger with Skinner

    This imperial hirschfanger is an early piece and is quite unusual in that it is finished in silver fittings instead of the usual brass for imperial pieces. The silvered fittings appear to have had some old lacquer put on them to preserve their finish but the patination has long ago covered the silvering. The pommel cap is kind of an interesting piece in that it is flared up to the rim and the upper portion is smooth. There is one decorative line around the edge. This pommel is retained by a peened over tang. The ferrule below nicely matches the silvering of the pommel having twin line decoration. The crossguard is a straight type which has quillon arms that go outward in a square shape and then become rounded in the shape of acorns at the quillons. The center blocks of both sides are plain. Below the crossguard is a small style fluted clamshell. The grip of this example exactly fits the pommel and the ferrule. The fitting process was extremely well done. The grip is a nice shape which rather than being rounded has almost three square sides. The antler has nice grain to it and varies in colors from tan to darker brown. The scabbard shell is made of black leather having decorative lines on the edges and sewn up the rear. This leather shows age throughout but is still in sound condition. The scabbard mounts are matching silvered type. The mounts have scalloped style edges where they meet the shell and the upper scabbard has the bulged area which is meant for making a pocket to secure the skinning knife. The original skinning knife is still in place. Its flat stag grip plates exactly match that of the current stag grip above. The knife shows some old sharpening and is a plain finish style. It also has a false edge at the top. A nice original skinner here! The upper scabbard fitting is complete with wire ears, one on each side, which would have acted to hold a thonged style hunting frog. The blade of this example is a plain type having single edge and fairly large fuller. This blade measures about 14-inches overall and shows some signs of sharpening along the edge. Overall though the blade is in pretty good shape still being mostly bright and rating at about excellent plus. There is a green felt original buffer protecting the blade. The blade does not go all the way into the scabbard as the leather has shrunk slightly. There is about one inch which remains out of the scabbard.

    Excellent Plus. $995.00

13. CUTLASS #30100C National Hunting Association Cutlass

    This This National Hunting Association cutlass is about the best that you will possibly see and still be some seventy years old. This piece looks like it was made yesterday and whoever purchased it way back then must have kept it wrapped up in a rug and stored in a chest somewhere. The fittings throughout are beautiful silver plate. These mounts have long since turned black with patination and they are extremely attractive as they have a fine even sheen throughout. The pommel cap is a beauty being the style with oak leaves and acorns throughout the surfaces and the subject matter has been delicately curved over the edges. Each of the oak leaves and acorns additionally has been hand enhanced with fine pebbled surfaces. An outstanding looking pommel cap here. Atop the pommel cap is an acorn depiction which also acts as a lug nut. This acorn is seated with the cap being downward. It also has fine hand enhancing. The ferrule below is the style that has twin raised out decorative lines which run the surfaces. Below this is the standard hunting crossguard which is plain in the center and has quillon arms in the shape of deer’s hooves. The hair of the deer’s legs on both quillon arms has been thoroughly hand enhanced and is quite impressive. The left quillon arm is pointed upward and the right arm is downward. Below the crossguard is a clamshell which is beautifully fluted. The grip of this example is a fine genuine antler. It is a beautiful piece of stag that was chosen specifically as its dimensions nearly exactly both the pommel at the top and the ferrule at the lower. There was only minor trimming required for the insertion of this antler. The stag is a beautiful brown color having nice raised grains which are a lighter tan at their upper portions. The reverse of the grip is most interesting in that it has an almost flat side. The obverse center is equipped with a pinned National Hunting Association insignia. The insignia depicts a stag head with a cross having rays in the center and cut into the cross is a mobile swastika. On either side of the deer’s head respectively are the initials of the hunting association, “D.J.”. The insignia appears to have been finished in a slightly coppery color but it looks really great against the stag handle. The scabbard consists of a beautiful green grained leather which is installed over a composition form. The installation of this leather is so good that it is impossible to even see a seam. Very beautiful work here. The leather is in new like condition having no scuffs, cuts or scrapes. A truly beautiful leather scabbard here. This shell is decorated with twin inscribed lines running the length of the edges on both sides. The scabbard mounts are matching patinated silver examples. Both have fancy scalloped edges where they meet the shell and they are retained by staples in the usual manner. It is possible to see that there are numbers below the staples. The lower mount has twin line decoration and the upper mount is plain fitted with a beautiful acorn which acts as a lug. The acorn also has substantial hand engraving to its cap. Installed on the upper fitting is a perfect conditioned frog which is original to this piece. This frog has a fine lighter green color to the leather and it is the style with “V” notch which catches below the lug. At the top of the frog is a D-ring which would have attached to the hunter’s belt loop snap clip. The reverse of the frog is in the original tan leather color and does show some age from being positioned on surfaces over the years. The blade of this example is the best you will see. It is a triple etched unmarked example, measuring 13 ½-inches. The beautiful blade is in stone mint condition having 100% of the gray frosting behind the figures in relief. On the obverse it displays an etch featuring a large stag chasing after two running does in a forest glen. At the end of the etch pictured on a perpendicular basis is a pointed dog standing in the weeds. The reverse blade features a scene of a kneeling hunter aiming his rifle at a large stag jumping over a fence. This is not the usual scene though as it is slightly different from the norm. At the end of the etch pictured in a perpendicular state is the rarely scene chamois deer with its small curved horns and fine spotted body. The chamois is rarely pictured in German hunting etches. The spine of the blade is etched in laurel leaf style depictions. The beautiful mint blade is protected by an in place dark green felt buffer. There is a little bit of mothing to the buffer though and one side of it has a number of nips. This is virtually the only sign of age that I see on the entire piece! It is interesting to note that where the moth had his dinner there is the stamping showing on the butt plate, “Solingen”. If you are looking for a real looker for your collection and you insist on only new like mint condition, this example is for you. It comes from one of the most advanced collections currently held in the world. A most beautiful true investment quality National Hunting Association cutlass.

    Mint, Mint, Mint. $3,695.00

14. CUTLASS #29783 National Hunting Association Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

    This National Hunting Association cutlass has fine silvered fittings throughout which have obtained an outstanding patination. The pommel at the top is held in place by a screw device which also acts as a tang nut. The groove of the screw appears unturned. The pommel below has the usual equally fluted out section at the top surface and on the edges it has twin sets of dual rings for decoration. The ferrule below is a cone shape and it also has twin decorative lines. The crossguard in the center area is plain and the crossguards go outward on both sides in the shape of deer’s hooves. The hooves have had the hair added in by hand. The left hoof is positioned in an upward rising position and the right hoof is downward. Below the crossguard is a clamshell which is also fluted having fine dark backgrounds in the separating lines. These hilt fittings are exceptionally nice. The grip is a most beautiful genuine antler. This antler was obviously chosen for its size as it is nearly a perfect fit to the ferrule and the pommel cap above. This antler has beautiful color tones in its raised graining. There are tans, light browns and dark browns spread throughout the beautiful surfaces. These hunting grips after seven decades really start to take on an antique look. If you are not a fan of these beautiful natural specimens you should spend some more times looking at them as in some cases they are almost irresistible. The obverse area of this grip in the center has the applied National Hunting insignia. The insignia depicts a stag head having a swastika with rays going outward centered between the horns. The head of the stag has the German initials of the organization, “D.J.” respectively on either side. The National Hunting Association insignia was more or less the same that was used for centuries in Germany with the exception the swastika was applied over the center area of the rayed cross. For those that do not know the insignia comes from the legend of Saint Hubertus. Hubertus was a hunter who came across a large albino stag in the forest. As he was aiming his crossbow the stag suddenly looked at Hubertus and told him in God’s words that if he kills the best of the species it could cause extinction. This legend was taken seriously in Germany and they were the first country back in medieval times to conserve game animals in order to preserve the species. Today many of you fellows who like to go to bars insist on downing Jaegermeister aperitif without knowing that the symbol of the cross between the deer’s horns is that of Saint Hubertus. So by not drinking all of the booze at one sitting you are conserving the Jaegermeister, which I guess is how this was all meant! At any rate, I do digress here. The scabbard of this example is a leather type featuring a beautiful grained green covering over a composition shell. The leather shows a little bit of wear and some age but overall it is still in fine condition. Most of the original grain is still in place. The scabbard mounts are matching silver. They are scalloped at the edges and they are retained by staples at the rear. The lower scabbard mount is missing the original staple revealing the number “11” in the center between the holes. This missing staple though is not jeopardizing the mount as it is frozen in place. The upper mount is equipped with a beautiful lug in the shape of an acorn. The cap is highly detailed. The acorn supports an interesting frog. This frog is the same type which was used for police bayonets and even K-98 bayonets. In this case though the frog has been dyed a forest green color and it was absolutely done during the period. This was a cheap way for the original purchaser to either replace his lost frog or maybe get out of buying another. At any rate, this frog dye job is very interesting and adds much to the desirability of this cutlass. The triple etched blade is the standard 16-inches. It is in beautiful mint condition throughout having fine bright plated areas. The three etches all have 100% of the original gray backgrounds. The etch designs are quite beautiful and very intricate. The obverse is etched with the kneeled hunter firing his shotgun at a large stag and doe who are jumping over a fallen tree. At the top of the etch is a whistling capercaille. This bird is perched on an oak leaf branch. The opposite side features the etch of a hunter carrying a rifle and cutlass chasing a boar who is being attacked by a number of dogs. The etch ends with the depiction of a bird similar to a humming bird. The spine has oak leaves and acorns which run about two-thirds of the way. The reverse ricasso of this blade is stamped with the trademark used from 1935-1941. It features a seated squirrel which is holding a downward pointing sword. Above the squirrel is the word “Original” and below is the firm’s name and location, “Eickhorn Solingen”. The original green felt blade buffer is in place showing some minor wear around the lower edge but still in good working order. An outstanding forestry cutlass here which will sit well in an appreciative collection.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,395.00(#082310)

15. CUTLASS #29866 Small Private Purchase Hunting Knife - Emil Voos

    This hunting knife overall measures about 8-inches. The hilt is produced of stag grip plates with an aluminum pommel. The pommel is in the shape of a side view eagle’s head only it is stylized. The knife is held together with a flush mount spanner at the top. The grip plates are a fine antler having brown and tan tones with golden coloring where the edges were trimmed. These grip plates are retained by four rivets. There are two rivets at the upper portion next to each other and two at the lower. Wrapped about the top of the grip as well as the bottom area is a decorative material perhaps being some time of celluloid. It is red, green and the natural color of the stag. The blade of this example is 4-inches in length being a slab single edge style with false edge. The false edge comes back nearly half the length and at the ricasso there is also a cut out at the bottom. The blade is a polished type and it is slightly gray but it’s still in pretty good shape not being sharpened to death. The reverse ricasso features the snake around stump logo and to the right is the name of the firm over the production city, “Emil Voos Solingen”. The hunting knife rests within a brown leather sheath. This sheath is sewn and has reinforcing rivets. At the upper area there is a leather retaining loop with working snap. A nice little knife here to help decorate a hunting scene.

    Excellent Plus. $95.00

16. CUTLASS #30013 "Skinner" Style Hunting Knife - Kuno Ritter

    This hunting knife is in the skinner style and overall it measures approximately 10-inches in length. The grip is a fine piece of genuine stag. The stag has been carved for the installation of a decorative lined pommel cap at the top and a lined ferrule at the bottom of the grip. These mounts are of nickel. The cap is flat on the top and is retained by two brads, one in each side. There is some minor tap, tap to the pommel top’s plain surface. The stag grip is a pretty shade of tan having some darker brown colors in the deeper depths of the grain. The areas where the mounts are retained are carved but these areas have turned golden from age. The scabbard is a leather shell sewn up the rear. The shell has a pebbled finish and has decorative lines which run the length of the edges. The leather shell has a lower mount which narrows to a flat chape and is scalloped on the end. In the upper mount is lined matching the ferrule also with a scalloped edge where it meets the leather. The scabbard shows age but is still in good serviceable condition. The blade is in the traditional skinner shape having a single edge and ricasso which also acts as a quillon. The blade is still bright at the beginning areas but does show some scratches where someone rubbed it possible with a brillo pad on the latter areas. It is not too bad though and still shows some sign of sharpening. The reverse area is stamped with a single oval having the firm’s name and location block lettered within the oval line, “Kuno Ritter Solingen”. In the center there is an intertwined “K” and “R”. Below the oval trademark is the word for stainless steel, “Rostfrei”. A nice original Third Reich period skinning knife.

    Excellent Plus. $295.00

17. CUTLASS #29868 Small Hunting Knife

    This small hunting knife looks almost homemade but I am not certain. It has a stag handle with a ferrule mount and no pommel. The stag is cut to a slight angle at the top and it is trimmed at the bottom to meet into the ferrule. The ferrule is a rather crude piece of metal. Below the ferrule is a steel crossguard device which is plain in the center and rounded on both guards and tilted downward at the quillon ends. The stag is a brown tan color showing much age. The blade of this example has been rudely sharpened throughout and it is hard to see what its original shape may have been. It does have a good strong spine however which tapers nicely down at the tip area. Perhaps a good person able to use a knife grinding wheel could once again reshape this blade. At this point it is a hodgepodge of grind marks going in all different directions. The scabbard for this example appears to be a Hitler Youth type. The shell is painted black with some touchup paint here and there. The original brown leather hanger is still in position being riveted to the scabbard. The hanger has the stamping we frequently see on these consisting of an oak leaf and the initials, “L” and “S” on either side respectively. The retainer loop has been removed from this strap and a small retainer loop has been installed at the lower complete with a working snap. This lower retainer does go around the ferrule and works good. This knife is priced to sell and is a good one for someone who can work with metal finishing. The Hitler Youth scabbard probably is worth the price of the entire piece. This knife came with some other items purchased directly from a veteran.

    Good Only. $65.00

18. CUTLASS #29867 Small Hunting Knife - Anton Wingen, Jr.

    This small hunting knife measures overall about 9 ½-inches in the sheath. The hilt portion of the knife is composed of a genuine stag grip which has a nickel-plated plain style cap with matching plain ferrule and a quillon which goes upward at the end in a teardrop shape. The stag is a very fine brown color having nice graining with tones of lighter tan. It is golden toned where the stag was carved to fit the pommel cap and the ferrule. A nice looking plain hilt here. The blade is almost in the shape of a butter knife being blunted at the end. It is in bright condition and still has most of its crossgraining. Someone has crudely sharpened the lower portion of the knife however and some of the sharpening does come up onto the blade surfaces but lower than the halfway point. This blade measures 4 ½-inches in length. The reverse is stamped with the little knight logo and above and below is the name of the firm and the location respectively, “Anton Wingen Jr Solingen”. There is a leather washer in place. Protecting the blade is a fine small leather sheath. The sheath has a nickel lower mount which ends in a rounded chape. This mount is retained by a small rivet going through the leather. Attached to the upper portion of the brown leather sheath is a small retainer loop to which is attached a belt loop as well as a small loop with snap which hooks over the quillon and keeps the knife in place. A very clever rigging here still in good serviceable condition. This little hunting knife could be brought back nicely by someone who is skilled at polishing metal. It is a high quality Third Reich item here that is worthy of restoration. This small knife came with some other artifacts I personally purchased from a Kansas veteran’s family.

    Excellent. $95.00

19. CUTLASS #26976C National Hunting Association Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

     This beautiful Hunting cutlass is one of three that were brought into my office by a Philadelphia couple. They explained to me that the man who lived next door was going to Florida and gave them the three cutlasses, as he did not want to take them with him. They brought them in here to me and I was thrilled to get them. All three were by Carl Eickhorn and all three have the over-the-shoulder stamped trademark which is almost never seen on these pieces. Two of them were Forestry types and the third, which I am offering here, is a National Hunting Association cutlass. The other two Forestries were sold at a recent show. This Eickhorn example is in new-like condition. It reflects fine silvered fittings throughout which still have most of their brightness as all of the original factory lacquer appears intact. This is quite a sight to see on one of these cutlasses some 60 years later. The pommel cap is the same as is seen in the Eickhorn catalogue for Model No. 1692, which this piece represents. The cap has a center positioned round nut which acts as a tang nut. There is a factory hole drilled through the center of this nut which acts as a device to hang a string or rawhide. The cap flares out with decorative fluting, and at its sides has decorative lines running around. The matching ferrule has two center raised lines for decoration. The cross guard is the up and down style and it features deer’s legs with hooves and the hair of the animal has been beautifully hand-detailed. It is interesting to note that a darker patination was applied by the factory at the areas where the hair is to give an antique look. Below the cross guard is a clamshell which is beautifully fluted, also having factory darkening in its depths. The grip is an outstanding piece of genuine antler. The antler has been chosen specifically for its size, as there was little cutting necessary to install this grip within the pommel and ferrule. The grip has fine brown and golden hues to the raised out grain. It is very beautiful and totally perfect condition. Pinned at the center of the grip is a National Hunting Association insignia. This insignia is silvered with dark backgrounds to match the fittings. It portrays a stag head with large antlers. Between the antlers is a cross with rays and in the center is a mobile swastika. On either side of the deer’s head, respectively, are the initials of the National Hunting Association “DJ”. The scabbard shell of this piece is a composition material beneath which is covered with a beautiful grained green leather. This leather is in totally perfect condition, having the decorative trim lines on the edges of both sides. This green leather is the best I have seen. The shell is fitted with silvered mounts. These mounts have all of their factory applied lacquer, as virtually no air has penetrated them. A very rare sight indeed! Both mounts are decorated with scallop edges where they meet the leather and they are retained with staples in the usual manner. The upper lug is in the shape of a fine acorn with darkened cap. The blade of this example is also a beauty. It is still factory fresh, having choice 100% frosting in the backgrounds of the raised triple etches. This blade measures 13 inches in length and retains its original needlelike tip. The scenes of the animals are spectacular, being in full mint condition. The obverse is the scene with a kneeling hunter aiming a rifle at a large stag and doe who are jumping over a log in a forest glen. After this main scene is a small area which depicts a capercaillie, which was a large game bird prominent in European hunting. The bird is sitting on an oak branch and appears to be tweeting. The reverse scene is the popular one featuring the hunter with cutlass in one hand and rifle in the other chasing after a ferocious boar who is in the midst of being attacked by hunting dogs. There are dogs all over the boar and also dogs flying around in the glen area. After this scene is a large hummingbird. The top spine is etched with oak leaves which run nearly the whole length. At the beginning area is the well known etching of the Eickhorn distributor “W.Michovius Cottbus”. This distributor must have handled a large number of hunting and forestry cutlasses for the Carl Eickhorn firm, as we frequently see their name included on the blade. To date, also as a bonus, this marking has never been reproduced. The blade would be a total mint were there not a couple of very minor age marks that appear on the top spine and a couple on the lower blade edge. They are nothing though, and this blade still rates in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the rarely seen over-the-shoulder trademark used by Carl Eickhorn in 1941. It features a squirrel in more of a “stick” form looking behind him. Beneath is the firm’s name and location “Eickhorn Solingen”. The original green felt buffer is perfect and is in place. This is an opportunity to acquire an outstanding Hunting Association cutlass which, in my opinion, was most likely taken out of a store or the Eickhorn factory. It is the best conditioned example I have seen to date.

    Mint. $2,995.00

20. CUTLASS #28984 National Hunting Association Cutlass

    This National Hunting Association cutlass does not appear to have been cleaned since the period. All silvered fittings have a very desirable black patination throughout their surfaces. The pommel is a very good-looking example having the oak leaf decoration overflowing the edges. There are also acorns which can be seen as spaced throughout this design on the edges. The bottom of the pommel is rimmed to nicely meet the stag grip which is just about the exact same size. This beautiful pommel is retained by an acorn device which also acts as a tang nut. The cap of the acorn has much hand checkering and is extremely detailed. The ferrule below is twin lined and it nicely sits on the center block of the crossguard. This crossguard is plain on both sides of the center area and the quillons go up and down in the usual manner. These quillon arms are in the shape of deer hooves and like the other parts have nice hand engraving. Below the crossguard is the clamshell which is beautifully formed and in perfect condition. The massive grip for this example is a piece of genuine stag. It is nicely shaped having a slight turn to the left at the top. The grain is a brown / tan color and is raised slightly throughout the grip. On the center obverse area there is a pinned DJ insignia. This insignia consists of a stag’s head with a sunray in the form of a cross in between the antlers, and then in the center there is a cut in swastika. This insignia still has some of the original silvering at the bottom area around the DJ letters but at the top area it is mostly down to the copper flash color. The scabbard shell is a fine composition example covered with green fine grained leather. This leather is decorated with twin lines which run down the edges of both sides. The leather is still in excellent condition showing a couple of very minor scuffs but nothing considering the age of this fine piece. The scabbard mounts are as black as the hilt exactly matching the patination. These mounts have a fine scallop design where they meet the leather. The silvering is slightly lighter on the reverse, an indication that the piece has been lying on this side facing upward all these years. These mounts are in perfect condition having 100% silvering and they are retained with staples in the reverse in the usual manner. The upper mount has a fine acorn device which acts as a lug. The acorn at the pommel, the cap is also finely checkered. The lower mount is simply line decorated. Very fine scabbard here! The fine slab side triple etched blade measures 12 ¾-inches. It is an extremely bright nickel-plated example retaining its needlelike tip and very crisp spine. This blade is unmarked, but that is no sign that it is not of highest quality as it definitely is. The blade is in mint condition. The obverse scene depicts a large stag chasing after two jumping does. Further down the scene there is a pointed dog who is vertically depicted on the blade. At the reverse there is a kneeled hunter shooting at a single running stag. By the way, this is not the usual hunter shooting at a deer, it is a totally different etch than you normally see. What is really interesting too is that at the end of this etch in a perpendicular form is the rare chamois animal which looks a lot like a deer with small single antlers. I remember seeing this animal on an etch many years ago and I assume this must be a blade of the same type. Very beautiful indeed! This spine is also impressive with its steadfast straight quality line. In the center it has an etching of laurel leaves with a fine frosted background. An extremely interesting and beautiful mint hunting blade here. The blade has been protected by a green felt buffer. Unfortunately it looks like a moth or some other cloth eating insect has got to it though and about half of the buffer is gone. A very fine hunting cutlass, not the usual run of the mill variety.

    Near Mint. $2,195.00 (#110209)

21. CUTLASS #28975C Hunter's Stag Gripped Knife

    This period skinning knife is quite attractive, and of high quality. There is a small cap at the top which is flat and has lined sides acting as a pommel. It is nickel-plated and is retained by two small brads opposite each other in the side. The matching ferrule is also lined and is at the bottom of the grip just above the blade shoulders. The grip itself is a fine piece of stag antler. It is nicely fitted to the pommel and ferrule and has very appealing grains of tan and brown with lots of raise portions. This grip shows some use but not much. The blade is a 3 ½-inche example in which the quillon also acts as a ricasso. The blade is single edged and tips upward at the point and has a false edge coming back at about half the length of the blade. It is a quality example although it does show old sharpening in the surfaces. The maker’s logo of the little knight is still visible within the sharpening as is the firm’s initials, “A.W.Jr.”. The “Solingen” is barely visible in the metal. The blade though is not bad and could really clean up nice if someone wanted to do it. This knife was used as an actual hunting instrument while in the woods. The scabbard is a short leather variety being of a brown color. It has twin lines decorating both sides of the edges and is sewn up the rear. The scabbard mounts exactly match the nickel finish of the pommel and ferrule. They have scalloped borders where they meet the leather and both mounts are retained by a single small nail in the obverse center. A nice original skinning knife here.

    Excellent. $195.00

22. CUTLASS #29035 Hunter's Stag Gripped Skinning Knife with Corkscrew – Schott

    This skinning knife measures overall about 9-inches with the blade being about 4 ½-inches. The grip plates are both fine stag which is cut in the shape of a pommel at the top eliminating the need for a pommel cap. The stag grip nicely fits in the handhold and has appealing colors of light tan and light brown with the edges being a golden color. These stag plates are in perfect condition showing only nominal wear and they are retained by five headless style rivets. On the upper edge of the grip there is a recessed tool which is a corkscrew. It is quite rare to see a skinning knife fitted with a corkscrew and this one is sure to have appeal. The stag is nicely cut out at the area to allow a thumb hold to pull the corkscrew out of its setting. The spring is still nice and strong which retains it. The scabbard is made of a brown leather shell sewn up the rear and having decorative lines on the edges of both sides. The scabbard mounts are a lined simple nickel material which are probably retained with some form of pressure or glue. The fine blade is the style which has the quillon also act as a ricasso. The blade is single etched and has a false edge which runs about half the length of this blade. It shows some graying from age and has quite a bit of old sharpening but it is still possible to see the maker’s name stamped into the surface which looks like, “Schott”. If someone wanted to work on this knife some of the old sharpening could be removed also but it is what it is and I think it is quite an attractive piece especially with the corkscrew. This knife would be excellent displayed next to some other hunting memorabilia.

    Excellent. $250.00

23. CUTLASS #28702 National Rifle Association Shooting Cutlass – Alcoso

    This shooting cutlass was personally purchased by me from the son of the 101st airborne veteran who brought it home. The cutlass is in completely “as found” condition and aside from some flaws in the grip will still clean up quite nicely. The hilt fittings are the usual aluminum base material having nickel-plated surfaces. The pommel cap is the style that has a fluted top going outward from a screw which acts to retain the tang. The sides of the pommel are decoratively lined. The ferrule below is a cone shape and it also has several sets of decorative lines. The crossguard has the up and down quillon arms, the center block being plain. The quillon arms end in nicely detailed acorns. The caps of these acorns appear to have hand engraving. The clamshell below is the typical shooting cutlass type having laurel leaves decorating the right side of the shell and oak leaves decorating the left side. The backgrounds are nicely pebbled. In the center is an applied National Shooting Association insignia. This insignia is about the size of a dime and is exactly shaped to nicely conform to the curve of the clamshell. In the center is a target-like black enamel bird with his wings half open and a white enamel target in the center. The enamel is in 100% condition across this bird. Going around the border of the medallion is the name of the organization, “Deutscher Schützen Verband”. Separating the words are two small swastikas which are the only symbols we see on these cutlasses. At the reverse the medallion is retained by two rivets. The grip of this example is a fluted wood base. The grip was covered with a celluloid coating which unfortunately like most of these has not only received cracks from the stress of the wood drying out below but there are also a couple of pieces of material that is missing. A small piece at the obverse front and a small sliver on the left side. To find one of these cutlasses with no stress cracks is practically impossible. The grip is decorated with a set of copper plated cross rifles. These rifles are pinned through the surface in to the wood below. The scabbard shell is a leather type. The leather has decorative lines which run on the edges of both sides and it is sewn up the rear. This leather shows quite a few age cracks and overall usage but it is all there and still relatively sound. The scabbard has nickel-plated steel mounts which exactly match the plating of the hilt. Like the hilt, these fittings would clean up nicely if someone wanted to do it. The mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the scabbard shell. The upper mount has a smooth lug for holding a frog. The reverse of both scabbard mounts have staples which act as the retainage method. Overall this long cutlass measures approximately 21 ½-inches. The thin slab side blade is a double etched variety having false edge which runs back about a third of the way on the upper portion of the blade. The obverse presents an etch which depicts a target with cross rifles as well as a pair of stags who are resting in a forest glen. There are also floral designs at the end. This blade shows some age and some graying but the scenes are still fairly easy to see. The reverse blade has more floraling and depicts a stag leaping over a fence in the forest. These cutlasses normally do not have etching on the spine. As is usually the case with cutlass blades, for some reason the graying runs across the blade down to about 3-inches past the ricasso, after that it continues smooth. This must have had to do with the machinery which was used to grind or polish these blades. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark used from 1937-1939. It consists of a set of scales having the firm’s initials interspersed. Above the scales is the firm’s name written in block letters in an arch shape and below is the location city of, “Solingen”. This blade only grades at about excellent. The blade is protected by the in place green felt buffer. This cutlass is not in terrific condition but it still is what it is and will clean up substantially. If the day ever comes where replacement grips will be available that would make this cutlass a very collectible example. In the meantime it is priced accordingly.

    Good Plus. $995.00

24. CUTLASS #28626 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass – Alcoso

    This subordinate forestry cutlass is a remarkable piece and no doubt was purchased at extra cost. The brass mounts throughout are of highest quality. The D-guard depicts raised oak leaf and acorn depictions on both sides. Each and every oak leaf shows signs of hand enhancing. Where the design goes through the crossguard area there is a bow like depiction which crosses each other. At the quillon end there is a hoof and the same is true at the quillon end at the top of the D-guard. The ferrule above is lined but also has a twin row of oak leaves which run throughout its circumference. The clamshell below depicts a hunting dog which is pointing in the center. The dog is in a forest glen and has trees above and on either side of it. One end of the clamshell turns upward ending in a curl at the right and at the left a much longer quillon is depicted which also goes upward and ends in a curl. There are nice appealing floral leaves on this quillon as well as some good-looking pebbling. The grip plates are a most beautiful very dark brown stag. This stag has a lot of gold mixed in with the colors giving it a most pleasing look. These grip plates were cut by a master and could not be nicer. Both sides are equipped with three matching acorns. The acorns are the type with two leaves above. The grip acorns are the type that have two leaves above each nut. These acorns appear to definitely be original to this piece and each and every one exactly matches the other brass features of the hilt. The scabbard of this example is composed of a black leather shell. The shell shows some nominal age but no real problems. This shell is decorated with the usual twin lines on each edge and it is sewn up the rear. The scabbard mounts are plain matching brass varieties which have scalloped edges where they meet the leather. These mounts are retained by staples in the usual manner and it is possible to see that there are numbers stamped below the staples. The original frog is in place on this cutlass. It is a fine darker brown color leather having a “V” style notch in the front that fits nicely below the acorn lug on the upper fitting. The reverse of this frog is a lighter brown leather color and it is fitted with a closed box clip at the top. The 13-inch blade is a triple etched variety having a ricasso. It has beautiful frosted etches on both sides. The blade, other than a couple of extremely minor nicks in the edges, is still in mint condition. The obverse depicts a pointing dog looking at a couple of foxes fooling around beneath a log. At the end of the etch two game birds are shown in the grass. The reverse etch consist of three doe who are trying to outrun a young stag. The action is taking place within a glen of trees. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark of this firm, “ACS” interspersed within scales. This spine has a series of laurel leaves running down most of its length. The original leather washer is in place. A very high quality cutlass and in top condition throughout.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,195.00

25. CUTLASS #26163 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass with Eagle & Swastika

    This later-made Forestry Cutlass is a short type and is produced with a gilded aluminum hilt and gilded steel fittings on the scabbard. This is one of the rarely seen examples which incorporate the eagle and swastika in the design. The gilt throughout the hilt areas is 100%. It really looks good and shows little to no wear. The “D” guard is beautifully hand-enhanced, having a series of overlapping oak leaves in the center and then at the upper area, has some depictions which almost look like flaming pineapples. Whatever these are, the cross checkering that was done is quite effective. The same design appears on both sides. At the center of the “D” guard, there is a sprig of oak leaves with a detailed acorn in the center. The “D” guard ends in a deer’s hoof, which is complete with decorative hair being cut into the surfaces. The ferrule area on the obverse depicts an open-winged Political type eagle which looks to the viewer’s left. This eagle clutches a small wreath within which, there is a raised out swastika. The detail is fairly nice to this depiction. The backs of the panels have been hand-stippled. The reverse ferrule is blank, just having a lined panel. The eagle and swastika designs are only seen in late pieces and, therefore, there are few of these that exist from the period. The grip plates are a fine genuine stag. These plates have darkened nicely over the years, having rich, brown grains in their surfaces. The edge areas of both plates have turned a golden color. The plates are decorated with three acorns on each side. These acorns are the style having the two leaves above them. All of them are in place. The scabbard shell is a black leather. It is still nice and supple, showing only the most nominal of wear and usage. This leather is decorated with twin lines on the front and back, and it is sewn up the rear. The leather shell is fitted with brass based gilded mounts. These mounts have pointed designs on both sides where they meet the leather. On the reverse, the mounts are plain and on the obverse upper, there is a nicely detailed acorn which acts as a lug. The lower fitting has a series of six oak leaves all on top of each other, and each having acorns out the side. This design is quite beautifully done and there is pebble patterns applied over these leaves. The scabbard mounts have about 50% to 60% of the original gilt. They are retained by staples in the usual manner. The short blade of this example is a triple-etched type. It is unmarked and is only about 10 inches in length. The blade has the action running toward the viewer when the piece is held in the right hand. The obverse etch depicts dogs pulling down a wild boar, and the reverse etch, depicts a large stag chasing a doe jumping over a log. It is interesting to note in the end panel of the reverse etch there is a large falcon sitting on a shelf looking to the left. This is the first time I remember seeing a bird of prey in any of these etches. The spine has a fine etching of laurel leaves. This unmarked blade is in full mint condition, having outstanding frosting highlighting the raised out areas. The original brown felt buffer is still in place. A very fine period piece in top notch condition. These examples are extremely difficult to find.

    Near Mint. $3,395.00

26. CUTLASS #26966 Deluxe Senior Short Forestry Cutlass - Unmarked WKC

    This deluxe Senior Short Forestry cutlass was the most expensive piece that WKC offered in its line of cutlasses. It is the stock no. 1051. This piece is not marked, but there is no question that it comes from WKC. If you do not have a WKC catalogue, this piece can be seen on Page 143, far right, of the Johnson Volume II book. This cutlass is most impressive looking. The hilt consists of highest quality brass mounts. The “d” guard runs through the cross guard area and ends in a deer’s hoof on both quillons. In the center area, there are raised out oak leaf and acorn depictions. The workmanship throughout is quite beautiful. The ferrule is built into the cross guard area and, in the center, it has small decorative lines which were hand-added in addition to the normal accent lines that run on both sides of the center. This cutlass has a very distinctive clamshell, different from all other types offered by WKC. The clamshell is in a shield shape design and it depicts the head of a grisly boar having ivory teeth sticking out of its snout. The boar has great detail throughout its hair, eye and ear. It is so detailed, you can almost hear it snorting. Around the head of the boar are raised out oak leaves and acorns. The backgrounds have all been random pebbled. A terrific looking clamshell area here! The grip plates of this example are done in expert cut ivory. These ivory plates have turned a very desirable golden tone and there are no cracks, chips or problems anywhere or these expertly cut plates. Both sides of the grip are fitted with the three-nut construction. These nuts are the style which go from large to small, and they feature two oak leaves above them with a thick stem. It is rare to see all three nuts in place and in this kind of condition. There is not a lot of gilding that remains across the surfaces of these pieces, but there is enough to give the piece a very formidable look. It excites the Forestry / Hunting collector with the fact that not only is the look and condition great, but it also has some signs of actual wear. The scabbard is composed of a black leather shell. The shell has twin decorative lines on the edges of both the front and the reverse and it is sewn up the rear. The scabbard fittings are nicely done with a scallop-like design where they meet the leather. The mounts are staple-held and there are numbers visible beneath the staples. The upper mount is fitted with a gold nugget type lug. It is quite beautiful and well done. The lower mount is decorated with hand-done oak leafing and also there is an extra sprig put in by hand at the upper portion. The chape of this fine fitting is a fancy doorknob type style. The triple-etch blade of this choice cutlass is only 9½ inches in length. It is in bright, near full mint condition. It depicts the same scenes which are shown in the catalogue piece. The obverse has the hunter with rifle in one hand and cutlass in another, running through the woods. He is chasing a boar that is being brought down by several dogs. The scene is clear and crisp and has all of the background frosting. The reverse scene is in the same fine condition. It depicts the hunter stooped while aiming a rifle at a large stag chasing after a doe, both of which are jumping over a log. The spine of this example is decorated with raised laurel leaves. As stated above, there is no trademark on this choice blade but it definitely is the work of WKC. The original brown leather blade washer is in place. An outstanding piece here which would add much depth to a otherwise fine Forestry / Hunting collection. This is a rarely seen exceptional piece which measures overall in the scabbard only 15 inches. In German hunting society, the shorter the weapon, the higher the status of the carrier.

    Near Mint. $2,995.00

27. CUTLASS #27467 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass - Carl Eickhorn

    This example is constructed of fine quality brass mounts. It is the Model No. 1189 which appears in the Eickhorn catalogue. The “d” guard is of fairly smooth surfaces having lined borders and at the beginning and end there is a simulated deer hoof. The hair of the hoof is hand-chiseled at the areas just above. The ferrule area is simply line decorated. Below the cross guard area formed by the “d” guard, there is a clamshell. This clamshell has a fluted surface and at the left side, it has a flared quillon end which goes upward in a teardrop. The grip plates are made of genuine stag antler. This antler has most attractive dark brown and tan grains with good surfaces. The edges of the stag have turned a pleasing golden color. These grip plates were cut and installed by a master craftsman. The grip plates are decorated with three leafless nuts. These nuts have fine checkered caps and all six are present and are original to this cutlass. The leather shell is a black color and is in excellent condition, showing little to no age. This shell has decorative twin lines on the obverse and reverse and the reverse is sewn tight. Mounted to the shell are brass upper and lower fittings. These fittings have scalloped ends where they meet the leather and they are retained by staples in the usual manner. There are numbers visible beneath the staples. The lower fitting has twin line decoration with a distinct chape button at the lower, and the upper mount is fitted with an acorn style lug. The blade of this example is as nice as you will see. It measures 13 inches and is triple-etched. This blade is still bright and has all of its frosting in the backgrounds. The blade is in a mint condition. The obverse etch features a hunter kneeling and aiming his rifle at a large stag chasing after a doe jumping over a log. At the upper portion of the etch is a capercaille bird which is sitting on an oak branch chirping. The reverse blade is the etch featuring the hunter running after a boar who is being pounced upon by dogs. The hunter carries a rifle and a cutlass. There are six dogs which are trying to bring this boar down. Some are succeeding, while others are being thrown on their heads. The etch ends up with a humming-bird like which is hovering above an oak-leafed branch. The spine is etched with overlapping oak leaves. The blade of this example is stamped with the early double oval trademark which traps the firm’s name and location, “Carl Eickhorn Solingen”. Inside is a rabbit-like squirrel eating a nut with serrated tail. This trademark was used from about 1933-35. The green felt washer is still in place. A fine cutlass here in excellent, collectible condition.

    Near Mint. $1,695.00

28. FC3 #27342 Subordinate's Forestry Cutlass - Alcoso

    This is a fine quality forestry cutlass with top-notch quality brass fittings. The “d” guard also acts as a cross guard and it has quillons which end in deers’ hooves. The hooves have had hair hand-engraved into the brass surfaces. The ferrule is a line design type. Below the cross guard area, there is a fluted clamshell. The clamshell has a flared teardrop at the right side and also another flared teardrop which goes up much further on the left side. This fine cutlass still has most of the original gilding across its surfaces. It looks to have about 95%. The grip plates are made of genuine stag antler. These plates have good looking brown and tan colors in the surface grains. The edges are a golden antique color. The grip plates have been cut and installed by a master. They are decorated with the three original acorn nuts. These nuts are the type which do not have leaves on their edges and they have fine checkering to their acorn caps. Tied about the ferrule and “d” guard is an original-to-the-piece forestry cutlass troddel. This troddel is for a senior cutlass, but, nonetheless, it appears to have always been on this example. The strapping consists of aluminum textured bullion have twin grain lines which run the length. There is a slide which consists of green and bullion “v” weaves and the stem is the flat type having crochet-like bullion covering its metal surfaces below. The ovaled bullion ball is of yarnlike aluminum material and it has a green cat’s anus style cloth stuffing. There is no fraying to this forestry knot and it is in near mint condition. The shell of this example is a standard black leather type having twin line decoration to both of the obverse and reverse edges. The reverse center is sewn up. The scabbard mounts are brass, having fine gilding nicely matching the hilt. These mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather and the lower example is twin-line decorated with button style chape. The upper example has an acorn which doubles as a lug. These scabbard mounts are staple held. Attached to the upper mount is an original-to-the-piece green leather frog. The leather on the reverse is a brown color. This frog is in excellent condition and it has a “d” ring at the top. The “d” ring appears to be nickel plated and is retained by a sewn green leather flap. Nice to see these cutlasses complete with the accouterments! The slab sided blade of this example is triple-etched and measures 13 inches in length. The blade is still nice and bright, having its original frosted backgrounds. This blade is in near full mint condition. The obverse etch portrays a pointer dog who is sniffing at two foxes playing around a log. The etch ends with two game birds sitting in a grassy knoll. The reverse etch has three doe running through a forest glen closely trailed by a young stag. The deer are in the middle of a forest glen having trees on both sides. There is overlapping laurel leaves which complete the spine etch. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark used from 1937-39. It consists of a set of scales having the firm’s initials “ACS” interspersed. Above the scales in an arch is the block-lettered name of the firm “Alcoso”. Below is the firm name of “Solingen”. The blade is protected by an in-place green felt buffer. This buffer shows only mild age. An excellent cutlass here and, as most collectors know, for some reason there are more senior cutlasses than there are subordinate examples. Also, Alcoso is not a commonly seen type. Fine example here.

    Near Mint. $1,995.00

29. FC3 #27579 Senior Forestry Cutlass - WKC

    This Senior Forestry cutlass is the stock no. 96 by W.K.C. This piece can be seen on Page 143 of Johnson’s Volume II, if you have a copy. If not, you might want to order a copy of the W.K.C. catalogue, which we have the nominally priced reproduction form available in the reference book section of our website. At any rate, this is a fine example being made of heavy brass construction. The brass has some of the gilded finish still remaining and I would estimate it is about 40% throughout. The hilt is composed of a “D” guard which has hooves simulated at the top and also at the quillon end where it passes through the cross guard. There is a fluted clamshell below having a small quillon at the right and a longer one which goes upward at the left, end in a teardrop. The ferrule area has line decoration, as do both of the side plates. The grips are a fine, geninue ivory. This grip plates have beautiful golden grains in their surfaces and they are in perfect condition throughout. Both sides have all of the original acorns. This model cutlass has the style acorns which have no leaves and a small stem which sticks up at the top. The acorns show some modest wear commensurate with the rest of the hilt. The scabbard shell is a black leather type, still being supple and only showing minimal age. This shell is decorated with twin line construction on the edges of both sides, and the shell is sewn up the reverse center. The scabbard mounts are relatively plain, having scalloped edges where they meet the leather. The lower example has twin line decoration and the upper mount is fitted with an acorn-like lug. These matching brass mounts are retained by staples. The 14 inch blade is a triple-etch type. It is in fine condition, still being nice and bright. This blade easily is in near full mint condition. The obverse etch depicts a buck grazing on some tree leaves and a doe eating grass next to him. Further down the etch is a centered stag head with cutlass above him and hunting bag and hunting horn positioned below the head. Above this scene is a couple of birds nestled in some grass. On the reverse, there are a number of scenes, beginning with a hunting dog pointing at two foxes around a log and further up is a number of hunting implements hanging from a branch and at the top are a stag and doe standing beneath two trees. The spine has laurel leaf depiction. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the knight head logo and below is the initials of the firm “WKC”. The blade is buffered by a brown leather washer. This is a nice Senior Cutlass and although it is a plain type, it is not seen too often and is a fine collectible.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,495.00

30. CUTLASS #25734 Imperial Forestry Cutlass with Skinner - Ewald Cleff

    This Imperial Forestry Cutlass still has great condition and a classic good look about it. The Cutlass is fashioned of finest quality brass, having still some gilding remaining throughout the surfaces. The hilt design features a D-guard, crossguard and quillon, which begins and ends with deer hooves. The center area of the crossguard and D-guard are decorated with simple line engravings. The ferrule area is also lined with three sets of raised-out, twin examples. There is a fluted clamshell with a teardrop on the right and a teardrop on the left, which rises upward. The grip plates of this example are most impressive, being of ivory. The ivory has toned over the years with the back grip being a very beautiful golden color. The obverse grip is slightly lighter, but has graining in the surfaces that really catches the viewer’s eye. This graining comes and goes as the weapon is turned in the light. It almost has a magical appearance about it and is one of the nicest pieces of ivory I have seen. These plates were cut by a master and installed by a great craftsman. Both grip plates are in totally perfect condition and they are decorated with plain oval-shaped bosses. The scabbard shell is a black leather variety, which has the push-out space area in the center that accommodated the skinning knife. This black leather is in excellent condition showing only nominal age. The shell has decorative lines on the edges of both sides and it is sewn up the rear. The scabbard has brass mounts. These mounts are scalloped on the edges where they meet the leather. The upper mount has the slot that accommodates the skinning knife, as well as a long lug arrangement. The lower mount is lined in two areas, but just on the obverse. Contained within the skinner slot is the original knife. This knife matches the grip plates of the cutlass. These ivory grip plates have also nicely toned, and the upper obverse area is fitted with a matching, plain, oval boss. The area of the knife’s grip, which is concealed within the slot, has only rivets, as does the reverse. The blade, itself, is a conventional type with small false edge at the top. The blade has a fine polish and shows only the most nominal of age. As most hunting/forestry collectors know, it is difficult to still find skinner knives still present within the cutlass scabbard. It is interesting to note that there are small notches cut in the ivory grip edge, so that the knife slides perfectly into the slot. The knife also has been slightly beveled so that it comfortably slips and then rests into the area. Very nice factory hand work here! The blade of the cutlass is most impressive. It is sixteen inches in length and is a slab side with single edge and false edge at the top, which runs back approximately one-third. This blade is nice and bright and is equipped with a triple-etch. The etch is extremely deep and well done. This is the first time I have seen an etch pattern that extends beyond the ricasso area. The ricasso has a floral style etching on all sides. The obverse etch is the style showing a hunter with rifle aiming at four deer running in a forest glen. The three deer in the front are female, while a small buck follows up the rear. The reverse etch features a large stag looking at three deer feeding in a forest glen. The etchings throughout the plants, trees and animals are absolutely superb. The upper spine area has a laurel leaf etching as well as the name of the producer, “Ewald Cleff, Solingen” raised out in a panel. The reverse ricasso also has a stamping positioned within an open area of the etch, “Ewald Cleff, Solingen.” The firm name is done in an arch shape. This blade has a couple of age spots in the surfaces, but for the most part, it still remains factory bright, crisp and in near mint condition. A very beautiful, unusual blade here. I do not recall ever seeing an Ewald Cleff produced Cutlass, so the maker mark, itself, is quite rare. The blade has been protected by an in-place, felt, red buffer showing some wear to the edges. A complete, unusual example with lots of desirable features.

    Excellent Plus. $1995.00

31. CUTLASS #23700 Imperial Named Jäger Forestry Cutlass with Damascus Blade - M. Neumann, Berlin

    This impressive Jäger Forestry Cutlass is in an untouched state, having recently come out of the woodwork. It is a long weapon, measuring almost 22 inches overall. The hilt is in the shape of a conventional Senior Forestry Cutlass. It has a “D” guard made of gilded brass, which ends at the top in a deer hoof, and also at the bottom, flowing through the crossguard with another hoof design. The ferrule is a plain example, having lined decoration. Below the center area is a fluted clamshell device, which has a long quillon teardrop end, which juts out to the left. The grip plates are carved ivory on both sides. This ivory is a golden color and has very pleasing grains through its surfaces. It is in perfect condition, and has three oval-shaped bosses, which decorate both sides. There is an original-to-the-piece, Prussian style portepee wrapped about the center area. This portepee shows quite a bit of age, but it appears to be a silver bullion style, having black lines running through it, with black, “V” decorations through the bullion slide and stem. The lower ball is a patinated silver bullion style. This knot also has some fray, but it does add character to the cutlass. The long scabbard is made of a black leather shell. This shell shows age, but it is still in a good condition, showing no rot anywhere. It is decorated with pressed lines which run the length of both edges, and it is sewn up the rear. The matching gilded brass scabbard mounts have scalloped-style edges where they meet the leather shell. These mounts also have line decorative designs, and the upper example has a long lug for the use of a frog. These mounts are retained to the scabbard with staples in the usual manner. Both of these scabbard fittings have turned to a plum color patination. This same color can be seen throughout much of the hilt fittings. The reverse upper scabbard fitting has the original owner's name and the date that he received this cutlass, “29.11.06./Orlowski”. This Cutlass was probably presented to the Jäger, Orlowski, on his graduation from Hunting / Forestry school, or perhaps a cadet program. Either way, this is a military Cutlass -- not a civil type. The choice blade measures 17 inches in length and it is forged of Damascus steel. It is the “Damastahl” pattern, having prominent designs which run through the metal. There is only a little nominal age evident in the blade surfaces. For the most part though, they are free of deterioration, and are very beautiful. This blade is in the shape of a Jäger variety, being the same as the blades shown in the Wittmann-Johnson Imperial Book on page 300. The blade has a short ricasso, and then a fuller, which runs down to about the halfway point. The edge is a single type, but then it features a quill back, which returns to about the one-third point. The blade easily rates in excellent plus condition. The blade spine has the etched name of a prestigious retailer. This example was purchased from, “M.Neumann, Hoflieferant Berlin”. Neumann was a supplier to royalty and had a well known retail shop in Berlin. Jäger troops were used in World War I and before, as it was recognized that skilled hunters and marksman were very valuable as snipers and the performance of other duties requiring accuracy in shooting. The fact that this cutlass is named, provides the next owner with a good opportunity to research the original carrier. I also recommend that the next owner clean this piece up, as the way it sits now, it looks like it just came out of someone’s cellar, and probably did! Jäger- related weapons are quite rare.

    Excellent Plus. $2995.00

32. CUTLASS #28140 DAF Dedicated Hunting Cutlass

    This cutlass appears to be a private purchase style example having stag grip plates and massive bowie style blade. The piece measures overall about 15 inches. It is of heaviest metal and of highest quality throughout. The grip plates are antler, very large, and have been shaped to the tang of the cutlass. These plates have a rounded pommel area and they thin slightly on the downward slope and then flare outward in the center area, making for a sturdy handhold. The antler is very beautiful, having attractive brown and tan color tones mixed in the graining. The edges have turned a golden tone and there is also gold tones in the outer edges of the grip graining. There is a hole which has been factory drilled through the center of the grip at the pommel top. Assumedly, this hole would have been used for the tying of a rawhide thong loop or similar effort. At the lower portion of the obverse grip, there is a partial round drilling of the stag. This partial drilling accommodates a cog wheel and swastika device which are the emblems of the Deutsche Arbeit Front. The insignia appears to be made of aluminum, having very crisp teeth to the cog wheel. The inside swastika is a pierced variety and is the mobile type. The surfaces of the swastika are intricately checkered. Behind this insignia on the stag base, there has been applied a red coloring. This, of course, accents the insignia. This coloring appears to have been done prior to the installation of the DAF insignia. Below the stag grip is a simple steel nickel plated up-and-down hunting style cross guard. The quillon ends are in a teardrop shape. The blade of this example is an extremely fine bowie style constructed example. It is 9 inches in length and has a blade edge which accommodates about half of the lower portion of the blade. There is also a short ricasso and consistent with bowie style knives, there is a false edge at the upper area which extends to almost the midway point. This blade is still bright, showing only minor age. On the obverse center area, there is a three-line dedication. The dedication is “In dankbarer Erinnerung/Ernst Bickel, Hannah Freitag,/Peter Schütz, Anne Schütz.” This dedication seems to thank the memory of these four people. It is interesting to note that two of the people are women in this case. For the most part, women are seldom mentioned on Third Reich edged weapons, so, perhaps, these people were connected with the labor unions that would have controlled both male and female personnel under the NSDAP. This piece is one of a kind and absolutely original. The blade also has some minor sharpening, but it is nothing. The scabbard is a leather shell. The shell itself is a darker brown leather which is sewn up the rear. It has a circular throat applied around the top area of the scabbard. Beneath the throat is a lighter color leather hanger application. It is possible that this hanger application was done after the war to replace the original one. I cannot tell for sure, but this lighter color leather does seem to be in a newer state than the leather on the shell. The bottom of the shell is equipped with a nickel plated chape fitting. This fitting is simple in design, having rounded style edges where it meets the leather and a ball at the bottom. A great piece here for those who may collect DAF items or possibly a great piece for future research. It is interesting to me to see the name “Ernst Bickel” on this blade, as most collectors will recognize that name as being a fine SA producer. Perhaps, it is the same individual who may have been connected with the DAF? At any rate, a tremendous cutlass here and a fine piece which would make a great addition to either a hunting or NSDAP collection.

    Mint. $1,995.00

33. CUTLASS #28019 National Hunting Association Cutlass - Unmarked E. & F. Hörster

    This hunting cutlass does not appear to have been cleaned since the war and it is in first rate condition throughout. The hilt fittings are plated silver types. The pommel cap is an extremely large example because the stag grip beneath is also a large proportioned piece of antler. This cap has the usual flutes which go outward from the center area and there is a simulated acorn at the top which also acts as the blade tang nut. The detail to the acorn cap is all hand-rendered. The sides of the pommel have the usual twin line decoration. The ferrule below is plain with two sets of twin lines. The cross guard is the standard up-and-down variety, having a left quillon pointing upward and a right quillon pointing downward. Both end in deer’s hooves and there is lots of simulated hair which has been hand-rendered. Below the cross guard is a fluted clamshell. All of these fittings are black with patination and look terrific. Setting them off, though, is a huge stag handle. This antler is extremely beautiful, having brown and tan colors in the surfaces as well as beautiful knobs and grains. The antler is so large that it is almost out of proportion to the piece. I like this look a lot though, and as is typical with the original producers, the piece of antler is almost the same size as the mounts, requiring little trimming. (Be careful of the stag grips that are highly trimmed, as usually this is a post-war giveaway.) The scabbard shell is a soft material base being covered with fine grained leather. The leather work is so well done that I really do not even see a seam. This scabbard shell does not have the usual twin decorative lines which run up the edges of both sides – sometimes the Alcoso pieces do not have them either. The shell is complete with the upper and lower mounts. These mounts are the style which have scalloped ends where they meet the leather. The lower mount has two sets of twin decorative lines on the obverse only and the chape button is nicely formed at the bottom. The upper mount has the usual acorn depiction which acts as a lug for a carrying frog. Unfortunately, the frog has gone to time. These mounts are retained by staples in the usual manner. The overall length of this fine cutlass is just about 20 inches. The stone mint blade measures 13 inches. This beautiful blade has triple-etched hunting scenes. The obverse scene depicts the boar being attacked by dogs with the hunter close behind grasping a rifle in his right hand and a dagger in his left. The end panel is finished off with a humming-like bird. The reverse blade depicts the scene of the hunter kneeling while aiming a rifle and there is a large stag and deer jumping over a log. The panel ends with a capercaille sitting on an oak leaf sprig whistling. The frosting behind the etch is absolutely 100% and really highlights the relief. The spine is etched with laurel leaves. A very beautiful blade here and the best you will see. The blade is buffered by the original green felt washer. This is an outstanding hunting cutlass which, judging by the fittings and blade, was definitely produced by the E & F Hörster Company. It would have been sold through a hunting shop thus the lack of manufacturer on the blade. I forgot to mention above, but the center of the grip obverse has a matching silver patinated insignia which is that of the Deutsche Jägerschaft. It depicts a stag’s head which in between his antlers is a raid cross and an inscribed swastika in the center. On either side of the deer’s head are the initials of the organization “D.J.”. This is a very fine insignia. If you are looking to have just one hunting cutlass in your collection, it would be very difficult to upgrade this beautiful impressive example.

    Uncleaned. Near Mint. $2,495.00

34. CUTLASS #22622 National Hunting Association Cutlass

    This example, despite the fact that it does not have a maker mark on the blade, is as fine a piece as you will encounter. It has the Alcoso style pommel cap, in that the oak leaves and acorns overlap the edges. See page 131 of Johnson's Volume I. There is lots of nice handwork visible in these areas. The cap is topped off with a simulated acorn, which acts as a tang nut. The cap of this acorn is heavily hand checkered. The silvering of this fitting is 100% and it matches the beautiful silvering throughout this cutlass. There is a patination build up particularly in the recesses, but it also looks as though this piece has not been cleaned in many years. The crossguard features the standard-up-and down deer hoof style, and the quillon arms have hand done simulated hair on the surfaces. The ferrule is a beauty having two sets of deeply cut twin lines. The stag grip is a little thinner than most of them you see. It is very dark having rich prominent grains and it appears to have been selected as the perfect fit for the mounts, as there is very little cutting noticeable on this grip. The obverse features a National Hunting Association insignia. This insignia is copper and whether or not it had silver at one time, it is hard to say, as there are no traces of it. The insignia, though, is still crisp and chances are it was made with this finish. It features a stag deer head with a swastika superimposed over sunrays in between the horns. On either side of the deer's head are the letters, "D", "J", which are the initials of the organization, "Deutscher Jagerschaft". The scabbard is an extremely fine example having a green leather shell. This shell is outstanding throughout, still retaining all of its grain pattern, and there are twin line decorations on the edges of both sides. You will not see a better conditioned scabbard shell. It is fit with beautiful silvered mounts which have scalloped edges where they meet the leather, but there are also additional fine designs that are featured in the side edges of the fittings. These mounts are retained by two silver staples. The top mount is equipped with an acorn which doubles as a lug retainer. The bottom mount has no enhancement whatsoever. The outstanding blade is approximately 12 ½-inches long. It is a polished style example which is in pristine condition throughout having triple etched motif. The spine of this blade looks like it was forged yesterday, it is so crisp. The spine, of course, features oak leaf designs which run its length. The obverse blade has a hunting motif of a large stag running after two does. They are in a forest glen. The upper portion of the blade ends with a perpendicular placed, pointing hunting dog. The reverse features a hunter kneeled with rifle aimed at a stag jumping over a fence. The etch ends with a beautiful depiction of a chamois. I can't emphasize more how terrific the condition of this blade is. It is easily in full mint. The blade has been protected by an in place green felt buffer showing some age but basically still all there. If you are looking for a fine conditioned original it would be difficult to upgrade this piece.

    Mint Minus. $1,995.00

35. CUTLASS #26886 Personalized Imperial Short Hirschfanger with Skinner - J.A. Henckels

    This Imperial short Hirschfanger is in choice, new-like condition throughout. Although it is made with a blue finish, it has lots of elegance about it. The hilt fittings and scabbard fittings are full size yet the total overall length of this elegant piece is only about 15½ inches. The mounts throughout have a fine, blued finish which is still at 100%. The pommel cap is the standard style, having an umbrella-like flare out from the top center, and there is a simulated acorn in the center which acts as a blade tang. This acorn is beautifully designed and has very crisp gnarls to the cap area. The sides of the pommel are plain. The ferrule matches the sides of the pommel cap, as its finish is also plain. The nice part, though, is that the original owner has had his name factory etched into the ferrule center area. It is etched and then gilded in the background, giving a great effect to this personalization “Lt. d. R. Geiger”. This would indicate that the owner was a Lieutenant Retired of the Reserve. His name was, of course, Geiger. It is possible that this man could be researched, but I have not tried to do anything with it. Below the superbly etched ferrule is a cross guard in the traditional Hirschfanger design. This guard has deerlike hooves and legs which rise up slightly on the left end and downward slightly on the right end. The simulated hair of the deer is perfectly executed. The center area of this cross guard has double circles, indicative of a target-like item. Below the cross guard is a standard clamshell device which has outstanding fluting. Setting off these beautiful dark black fittings is a tremendous piece of genuine antler. This antler is so dark with age that it has almost turned black in some of the depths of the graining. Other areas where the graining rises out have a beautiful, antique golden color. This piece of antler was selected for its size and it has been handly trimmed to fit properly into the pommel and ferrule devices. This antler has to be seen to be appreciated. Absolutely splendid! The scabbard shell is a very short piece of black leather. The leather contains the pocket area at the obverse for the skinner and additionally, it has been decorated with trim lines on both sides and it is sewn up the rear. This leather shows little age and remains in perfect condition with its original black surfaces. The scabbard mounts are also outstanding, being blued to match the upper mounts. The lower mount has only scalloping to the edges where it meets the leather and no other decorative engravings. It has a couple of tiny, minor taps at the reverse center area, but they are nothing. The upper mount has dual sets of decorative twin lines and is fitted with the entrance to the pocket in the leather to accommodate the skinner. At the outside center area is an acorn which serves as a lug. Both of these fittings are secured with staples in the normal manner and it is possible to see numbers beneath these staples. For once, the original skinner is also in place. This skinner has wonderful antler plates which appear to have been cut from the same piece of stag as the Hirschfanger. This antler is absolutely beautiful, having the same subtle golden tones to the upper areas and nearly black colors in the depths. The blade of the skinner is a high-quality example which is still mostly bright and has most of its original cross graining. It is a slab side blade with a false edge coming back to about the halfway point. The reverse of the blade is etched with the Henckels twins - nice! The blade of the Hirschfanger itself is really something to see. It is 9 inches in length and is of the highest quality polished steel. This blade is a slab side with short ricasso and it has a false edge which goes backward to about the one-third point. The blade is double etched and the panels are extremely beautiful. The panels are done on a perpendicular setting. The obverse panel features a very large stag with huge antlers resting in a forest glen. Above the stag is a fine-looking sprig of oak leaves and acorns. The frosting is 100% throughout the backgrounds of the etch. On the reverse, the upper oak leaf springs are the same and at the lower portion, there is a fox which appears to have his leg caught in a trap. His tongue is hanging out, so, apparently, the trap has gotten the better of him. I do not remember ever seeing a trapped animal starring in one of these etches. This is a most unusual etching and an absolutely stunning blade. The reverse ricasso is also etched with the twins trademark and below the figures is the firm’s name and location “J.A. Henckels Zwillingswerk”. The original green felt blade buffer is in place protecting this mint blade. This buffer shows a little bit of age and some of the edges are beginning to wear. It has done a great job, though, protecting this wonderful cutlass. This is one of the nicest examples I have seen. It should be well appreciated by the next purchaser. I know I have certainly enjoyed owning it during the short time I have had it.

    Mint Minus. $3,995.00

36. CUTLASS #18918 Nationa Hunting Asscociation Cutlass with Rig - Carl Eickhorn

    This is the ultra-rare silver deluxe cutlass offered by the Carl Eickhorn firm, as Model Nr. 1711. It is the one everyone wants, but is extremely elusive as most examples encountered today are post-war reproductions. This beautiful example is the short style, overall measuring less than 18 inches. The silvered mounts throughout reflect a fine patinated finish. The pommel cap is decorated on the top with a flair-out of detailed oak leafing, all stemming from a centered acorn which also acts as a tang nut. The lower side rim of the cap also reflects raised-out overlapping oak leafing. The motif is further matched with the lower ferrule ring. There is also a beaded ring above and below the leafing pattern of this ferrule. The impressive crossguard features quillons with detailed hooves making up the ends. They also have hair simulated legs which stem out from the center block which features more raised out oak leafing. The crossguard arms are the up and down variety. Below the guard is a choice clamshell. The shell depicts a tweeting ge hopes a female shows up. The panel appears on the obverse only. Attached to the upper mount is the original-to-the-piece green leather frog. The frog is the style having a "V" notch and a gilded "D" ring. Attached to the "D" ring is a matching green leather teardrop, having a matching gilded pebble finished snap clip. The reverse of the clip is stamped "RZM 5/117" and also "B & N". A great rigging here that is worth a lot of money in its own right. But that's not all. Attached to the reverse of the frog is a choice original senior hunting portepee. This very rare portepee features gold bullion strapping having narrow dual green lines running the length. The slide is a bold bullion textured fabric, and the stem is the flat style crochet type. The ovaled acorn ball is gold bullion, having a cat's anus green stuffing. This original portepee is extremely rare and is the first I remember seeing. The blade is bright throughout, being a triple etched variety. There is a little mild sharpening, but you see this on these things. It is not bad and it is not into the etch. The blade conforms to the Eickhorn catalog layout and other than the minor sharpening, this blade is in near full mint condition. The obverse is etched with the standard scene of hunter kneeling with a rifle, shooting at a doe and a buck running off over a log. The obverse has the hunter running after his dogs who are in the process of pulling down a boar. The upper edge spine is etched with oak leafing. As is correct for period Eickhorn short blades, the action runs toward the tip when the cutlass is held in the right hand. The reverse of the blade is stamped with the 1935 through 1941 squirrel trademark. The green felt buffer is in place, showing mild age but all there. A very rare original with all the bells and whistles. You will look a very long time for one of these.

    Near Mint. $7,495.00

37. CUTLASS #24070 National Hunting Association Cutlass - Clemen and Jung

    This Hunting Association cutlass has never been cleaned and reflects total black patination over its silvered fittings. It really looks good and has much appeal to those of us out there that like this untouched look. I personally think there is nothing that looks better than coal black silver! The Clemen and Jung produced Hunting Cutlasses are quite rare. This one is very beautiful and I believe is the first of its type that I have offered. The hilt has a pommel cap which has the normal ringed edges and flared out lines on the top section. The fluted lines are covered in the center by a round cap which also acts as a tang nut. This round cap is different from any other tang retaining assembly I remember seeing on hunting cutlasses. It certainly would be exclusive to Clemen and Jung. The crossguard is the standard up and down style which depicts deer's hooves. The hair of the hooves and legs is all hand done. The ferrule is a choice example having two raised out lines for decoration, instead of the usual cut in style. The ferrule and crossguard are also of a slimmer proportion than what we usually see. The clamshell is a standard type which has beautiful fluting. These fittings, as stated above, are still all black and they are of a slightly smaller proportion than what we normally see. The grip is of antler and it has been hand picked to nearly fit these mounts naturally with very little chiseling. This impressive stag is of a darker color brown and it has fine raised grain areas with appealing golden toning where it has been trimmed slightly to fit both the pommel and the ferrule. Pinned into the center of the antler grip is a National Hunting Association insignia. It consists of a stag head with a swastika superimposed over the cross which lies between the antlers. On either side of the deer's head respectively, are the initials of the organization, "D.J." The silvering still remains throughout this hunting insignia. The scabbard shell is a fine green leather covered example. The base material is probably a composition. This leather still remains in good condition showing only mild age and still having all of its surface graining. There is a little bit of runner push-out, but not much. The scabbard mounts are matching patinated silvered type. They both have scalloped designs where they meet the leather. The bottom mount has a standard button style chape and is line decorated. The upper mount has no decoration and is fitted with an acorn lug. The cap of the acorn is deeply hand cut. These mounts are retained by silvered staples in the usual manner and there are numbers visible beneath the staples. The blade of this example is a very fine high quality triple etched slab side type and it measures 13-inches in length. This blade is in mint condition. It features a perpendicular placed etching instead of the horizontal type most producers portray. The obverse blade features two panels which are flanked by floral designs at the beginning, center and end. The first panel depicts a stag jumping in a forest glen and the second panel portrays a fox with a rabbit in his mouth standing beneath trees. The reverse blade has a repeat motif with floral designs, except it has actually three panels instead of two. The first panel features dogs attempting to pull down a boar, the second has a stag and a doe standing in a forest glen eyeing each other up, and the third panel depicts two game birds in some high grass. Beautiful designs here and every minute detail is clear as a bell. The spine reflects laurel leafing throughout. The reverse ricasso is stamped with a small shield having a crown over its top. Within the shield is the capital letter, "Z", being the logo for the Clemen and Jung firm. There is a new-like black leather washer in place which has perfectly protected this choice blade. A great piece here for those collecting Hunting Forestry types.

    Near Mint. $2,

38. CUTLASS #26451 Shooting Prize Chain

    This item is not a dagger or a cutlass, but because of its nature as a shooting prize chain, is best displayed in the Shooting Cutlass section, as those interested in these pieces should be also interested in a prize chain of this quality. First of all, the chain consists of heavy overlapping links of a fairly good size. Attached to it are about forty different coins and medals which were awarded to shooting prize winners beginning around 1895 and ending about 1936. Many of the prizes were awarded to a “Fr” (Freiherr Herbold). Assumedly, this local aristocrat was a top shot, as since many of the coins have his name and dates awarded on the back of them, he must have been the best in the area. There are also other names on the reverse of some of the coins. The coins are all most interesting in themselves, as they each represent an event that was held in Imperial, Weimar, or Nazi Germany. Each and every one has the engravings of the top Master professionals of that time. It would take many hours to study each one of these coins and medals and I am sure would produce much enjoyment to someone tuned into this history. Many of the coins have the Kaiser, Hindenberg, Hitler and other notable people who were in charge during the times of these shooting contests. Apparently, the club which sponsored the contest may have been from Hesse as there is a large shield device in the center with an applied crowned lion that looks like the style used by this state. Below the lion image is a three-line engraving which could be the name of the club, “Rodenbergs/gefstem/Schützen/”. I don’t know for sure, but this would be a pretty good place to start with the research. Some of the other medals are also in the form of targets. Many of the medal prizes mention the word “ring”. Assumedly, this is probably something that refers to targets. This necklace could provide a great springboard for lots of research and after it is all done, it would make a fantastic cased piece to highlight one’s recreation room. Lots to see here, lots to study here, lots to research here. I personally purchased this item from the family of the Veteran that brought it home. It has never been in a collection and I must say, I have personally enjoyed owning it over the past several months. A great artifact here, stemming three periods of German history.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,295.00