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The DLV (Deutscher Luftsport Verband) was organized in 1933, as a para-military sports organization for Germans to fly limited motor-driven airplanes, gliders and ballooning. The DLV Officers wore a very long dirk of 55cms. The dirk design was a crucible form consisting of cigar-shape ribbed wood grip, covered with blue leather. The round nickel-silver, flat-surfaced pommel and matching downswept winged crossguard were inlaid with gilded brass sunwheel swastikas on both sides. The long scabbard was a composition base material, covered with matching blue leather. There are three nickel scabbard mounts which are retained with staples. A chain hanger is affixed to the upper two mounts. The long blade is a nickel-plated example. Transitional DLV and 1st Model Luftwaffe examples exist which are shortened DLV examples, or examples having early composition scabbards and staple-held fittings. The 1st Model Luftwaffe evolved from these daggers.

The 1st Model Luftwaffe dagger, although still a fairly long weapon, was a shorter variation of the previously carried DLV Officer. In 1935, Hitler unveiled the "secret" Luftwaffe to the world, defying the Versailles Treaty. It became the third fighting branch of the German Wehrmacht, and was headed by Hermann Göring as Commander-in-Chief. Initially, only Luftwaffe Officers with flying status wore the new Fliegerdolch. Later, regulations were relaxed and other Officers were permitted to wear the "flying dagger". After 1937, Officers were required to wear the newly introduced Offizierdolch (2nd Pattern Luftwaffe dagger). The 1st Pattern, from that point on, was worn by high ranking NCO's, not officers. Initial patterns of the early Fliegerdolche were constructed using heavy solid nickel materials for hilt and scabbard mounts. Gilded brass sunwheel swastika inserts decorated the pommel and crossguard. The cigar-shape, wood-based grip and scabbard shell are covered in a rich Moroccan blue leather. A chain hanger with snap clip is attached to the scabbard. Examples produced after 1938 have aluminum fittings. Late examples were produced of nickel pot metal hilt fittings with plated steel scabbard fittings. Blades were usually quality nickel plated.

1. LD1 #34995 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – Carl Eickhorn

   This very desirable 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is of initial production. In fact, it is identical to the example that I show on page 98 of my Luftwaffe book. It has an outstanding patination throughout all of the solid silvered surfaces. The pommel is a beauty having the medallion insert type sunwheel swastikas. The area around both of the swastikas is completely black really highlighting the fine brass color of the sunwheels. The edges of the pommel show some normal wear but no hits. The crossguard sunwheels are in the same condition and look identical except for the fact that they are smaller. The crossguard arms gracefully come out and descent downward. These quillon arms are in excellent condition also with a very black patination. The grip is a carved wood type and it is of course, covered with blue Moroccan leather. This leather is in choice condition throughout showing only nominal wear and is triple wrapped with twisted brass wire the center being of larger proportion. It is interesting to note that on these very early Eickhorn Luftwaffe examples the ribs of the grip run downward from right to left instead of left to right on the leader pieces. You can see this same effect on the example I show on page 98 of my Luftwaffe book.

   The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell has excellent matching Moroccan leather which shows a few carrying signs but no obvious nips or problems. The scabbard leather exactly matches that of the grip. The scabbard mounts are heavily silver plated over solid nickel. These mounts are in good condition the lower example showing a few carrying signs but nothing serious. It is interesting to note that these mounts are retained by single screws on the left edge of each example as opposed to the two screws used later on. The screws are also a flat head type whereas the later screws are headless. These are interesting little innuendos that always makes this hobby very exciting. The chain hanger is a matching silver plated nickel type. Instead of the normal tab connecters where the chain is connected to the carrying rings there are “S” fittings the same as page 98. There are nine ringlets on the top chain and fourteen on the lower. Both chains are connected to a fine unmarked matching snap clip.

   As we would hope, this blade has plenty to admire. It has a highest quality nickel-plated finish ending in a needlelike tip. The blade is easily in full mint condition. It is maker marked on the reverse ricasso with the early double ovals used from 1933-1935. These ovals contain the firm’s name and location, “Carl Eickhorn Solingen”. Inside is a seated squirrel having a serrated style tail holding a nut in its paws. The original matching blue leather blade washer is in place. An outstanding dagger here and a great one to save for investment purposes as we don’t see these early Eickhorns much anymore. Highest quality and greatest looks here!

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,995.00

2. LD1 #35000 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – Carl Eickhorn

   This choice early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is not of the earliest vintage, but was probably made about 1935. It has the solid nickel mounts throughout all being heavily silver plated. The silvering has deeply patinated and really gives a desirable look to this piece. The rim of the pommel shows some usage but there are no hits or problems. The sunwheel medallion is the type that is inserted and it has 100% of the silvering still between the swastika legs. The same is true of the crossguard sunwheels. It is always great to see this original finish still intact. The crossguard arms are nicely patinaed sloping downward in their three segments. The grip is a carved wood base covered in blue Moroccan leather. This leather shows little usage and remains in perfect condition. It is triple wrapped with brass wire, the center example being twisted.

   The scabbard shell is nice and straight throughout. Unfortunately when we acquired this dagger the original leather was nearly gone so we made the decision to recover it. We have recently acquired Moroccan leather that is identical in all respects to the leather used during the Third Reich time. In fact, this leather comes from a leather shop in Stuttgart which was originally started in 1925. I do not doubt that this firm supplied Solingen with their Moroccan leather during the time. The recovering came out perfect and I don’t think that you would realize it was recovered except for the fact that the leather remains in totally perfect condition. It really looks beautiful!

   The scabbard mounts are equipped with matching solid nickel mounts which are heavily silver plated. The upper and center mount are in excellent condition whereas the lower mount shows a few hits here and there and a few signs of carrying for a number of years. None of this is detrimental though and gives you a good feeling of the period. The mounts are retained by headless flush mount screws. Attached to the two rings is a matching silvered nickel chain. This chain is equipped with nine ringlets on the upper example and eleven ringlets on the lower. I suspect that during the time the original wearer had the lower chain shortened some perhaps to bring the carrying length of the dagger up slightly. At any rate, this is hardly noticeable and is strictly a period done alteration.

   The blade of this piece is a high quality nickel-plated example. It is in choice condition throughout and other than a couple of the most minor of nicks along the edge it is in mint condition. These minor nicks barely show. This blade is marked with the trademark used from 1935 through 1941. The trademark consists of the seated squirrel holding a downward pointing sword. Above the animal is the quality word “original” and below is the firm’s name and location, “Eickhorn Solingen”. The original blue leather buffer is in place. A very nice Luftwaffe dagger that would sell for $500 or $600 more than we are asking giving a discount for the fact that the scabbard has been recovered.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,395.00

3. LD1 #34906C 55cm DLV Officer's Pattern Dagger – Paul Weyersberg

   This 55cm DLV Officer’s piece is in the finest condition that I remember seeing. It is a very long dagger equating to 21½ inches overall. This piece is basically identical to the color picture that I show on page 13 in my Luftwaffe book. The pommel has a fine patinated silver finish with fine edges to both circumferences. The pommel has a brass sunwheel swastika actually inlaid into the surfaces so that it fits flush. This work is absolutely outstanding and must have taken a lot of time to achieve. The same treatment has been done to the sunwheels on the crossguard center block. I don’t know whether these sunwheels would have been gilded when the piece was new but the contrasting brass against the fine dark patina makes for a great look. The crossguard has the downward descending wing-like quillons which are in three separate sections. This crossguard shows fine matching patina and the edges are free of nicks or bumps. The grip is a most interesting part on these Weyersberg daggers. The grip appears to be a carved wood base covered with blue Moroccan leather. This however is only appearance as actually the grip is not carved at all but has rows of string which are positioned over the surfaces to give the effect of ribs. This DLV grip is equipped with fourteen ribs which run slightly downward from left to right. The ribs were never meant to have wire wrap. The leather throughout this grip still remains in completely perfect condition. Even the grain distinctly appears in the recesses. There is a matching silvered ferrule at the bottom of the grip between the crossguard upper area. This dagger does not take down, as the pommel is peened into place where the tang comes through the upper center area. An outstanding hilt here!

   As nice as the hilt is the scabbard is also a marvel. The shell is actually a composition material which has no metal inside. The composition is covered by matching Moroccan leather. In the case of this example, although it is almost impossible to believe, the leather is still in perfect condition having no cuts or bruises. Given the extreme length of these dirks it must have been a mighty careful wearer that was able to avoid any flaws. I would think just coming up to the urinal had to take its toll but apparently this man thought before he leaked.

   The scabbard mounts are solid nickel having a fine silver-plated surface which has also patinated to match the hilt fittings. These three scabbard mounts are in excellent condition throughout showing little usage. The bottom mount has just the slightest of a ding on the reverse. These bottom mounts are also unique in that they are equipped with a chape ending that has four sections. They look to me like the rattle on a rattlesnake. These mounts are retained by large matching silver staples. The staples are nicely in place and have no problems associated with them. The upper and center mount are equipped with eyelets and center rings. Attached to the carrying rings is an early chain which is the type equipped with flat style rings. The chain is attached with matching nickel tabs to the carrying rings. The early style clip is the solid nickel type. The piece that I show in my book has a slightly different chain and is attached to the carrying rings with “S clips”. This chain however appears original to this piece.

   The impressive long blade is approximately 15½ inches in length. This blade has a polished surface. It still retains its needlelike tip and is mostly bright throughout having a few minor age smudges but nothing that amounts to pitting or rust. This fine blade still grades at excellent plus, plus. The reverse ricasso is etched with the double ovals which contain the producer’s name and location, “Paul Weyersberg Solingen”. In the center is a downward pointing sword which is positioned between a wreath of laurel leaves. The original matching blue Moroccan leather buffer is in place to protect the blade. This is a great opportunity to acquire an outstanding conditioned 55 cm example. I have not been able to offer one of these in a long time and I’m sure that the “right” collector is out there looking for one and this example should literally make his day. A fine original piece here!

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $8,495.00

4. LD1 #34899C Transitional 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – WKC

   This transitional Luftwaffe example is the style which was produced based on the former DLV design prior to the Solingen producers adopting a steel scabbard shell. These transitional examples are always interesting to add to a collection. The hilt of this example has the early nickel mounts. The edges of the pommel are still good with one minor hit at about the twelve o’clock area of the obverse. The pommel is equipped with the medallion style sunwheels which exhibit fine brass workmanship. The same sunwheel insert medallion appears on both sides of the crossguard center block. Studying the two sunwheels it appears as most of the nickel plating is gone from between the legs of the swastikas. Never the less, they still look quite effective. The crossguard features the downward sweeping wing style quillons which are separated into three sections. The grip is a carved wood base that descends from left to right. It is covered with leather which still remains in absolute perfect condition exhibiting most all of its original grain. The ribs are tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. Below the grip is a silvered ferrule positioned between the upper crossguard.

   The scabbard shell, as indicated above, lacks metal and is made of a composition material. This material is covered with matching Moroccan blue leather and the leather on this piece remains in perfect condition. A really great shell here. The shell is equipped with silvered nickel mounts. The center and lower mount remain in perfect condition whereas the upper mount has a couple of minor dings but nothing serious. The mounts are retained by the large style staples which match the patination of the fittings. The upper staple has a small ding to the center area but is not compromised in any way. Attached to the two carrying rings is an early nickel chain. It is interesting to note that the chain is attached with a series of what appears to be five wires soldered together. Judging by the amount of movement and wear to these unique connectors I am sure that this was a period done job. The ringlets number nine on the upper chain and thirteen on the lower. They are connected in the standard way to an unmarked nickel clip. If you are not familiar with the design of these transitional daggers you can see several on pages 38 and 39 of my Luftwaffe book.

   The blade of this example is a nickel-plated type. It has a very fine finish which is still bright and other than in and out marks, the blade is in mint condition. This blade is stamped on the obverse ricasso with the knighthead and below the firm’s initials, “WKC”. The original blue leather blade buffer is in place. It is also interesting to note that the WKC firm normally used wood runners in their 1st model Luftwaffe examples and the same is true in this transitional piece. The wood runners result in a fine in and out motion and also these runners avoid the normally seen “bulging” that we see on most other composition scabbards where the metal runners pushed out the leather. A very fine quality Luft example here.

   Excellent Plus. $2,195.00

5. LD1 #34798 Transitional 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – SMF

   This transitional Luftwaffe example is equipped with hilt mounts produced of solid nickel base metal. The pommel has a minor hit to around the eleven o’clock area of the obverse rim but otherwise both rims are in good condition. The pommel and crossguard center block have the medallion insert style brass sunwheel swastikas. The silvering between the legs of all the swastikas still appears to be there in place. The crossguard arms are the style which flow downward in three separate sections. The edges of the guards are still in good condition throughout. The grip is a carved wood base being covered with blue Moroccan leather. The leather is in excellent condition showing only a couple of normal wear signs. The ribs of this grip taper downward from left to right. These ribs are tightly wrapped with triple silvered wire, the center being twisted. There is a matching ferrule below the grip and positoned between the crossguard upper area.

   The scabbard shell is the style made of composition material with no metal shell inside. The composition material is covered with fine matching Moroccan blue leather. This leather is in excellent condition throughout having no nips or problems but does show just the slightest of runner “push out” at the bottom area. It is not bad however and much less severe than we normally see. The scabbard shell is equipped with silvered nickel mounts. These mounts throughout are in good condition. They are retained by the large style silvered staples. The staples are in good condition although the upper staple moves a little bit when the blade goes in and out but it falls nicely back in place when the blade is in full return position. The upper and center mount are equipped with eyelets and carrying rings. There is a matching solid nickel chain attached with the standard nickel tabs. There are nine upper ringlets and thirteen lower ringlets. Both chains are attached to an unmarked matching nickel snap clip. This dagger is identical to the examples that I show on page 39 of my Luftwaffe book

   The blade is a nickel-plated type having good needlelike tip. This blade is still bright throughout but does show a few in and out markings and some minor surface scratches here and there but nothing severe. The blade still easily grades at excellent to excellent plus. The reverse ricasso is etched with the seated king trademark. The king holds a sword in an upward position while he sits on the initials of the firm, “SMF”. Below the seated king in an upper arch shape is the location town, “Solingen”. The original blue leather blade buffer is in place. A good solid transitional example here recently purchased from a collector in South Africa.

   Excellent. $1,795.00

6. LD1 #34923 Uncleaned 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – David Malsch, Steinbach

   This 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger was recently purchased by me from the family that brought the dagger home. The dagger has never been cleaned and remains in a deeply patinated state. The mounts are all solid nickel throughout having a nice patination with some silver frosting still remaining throughout the crossguard quillon areas. The pommel cap has excellent crisp edges on both sides. The brass medallion inserts have good sunwheel swastikas but all of the plating is worn out from between the legs. The crossguard center block also has fine medallion sunwheel inserts and most of the original silvering is still between the legs. The crossguards nicely taper downward and still have crisp sections with silver frosting noticeable on the surfaces. The grip is a carved wood base having ribs which descend downward from left to right. The grip is covered with fine dark blue Moroccan leather. The leather shows only modest usage and is still in excellent condition. This grip is tightly wrapped with brass triple wire, the center being twisted. The matching ferrule is in position below the grip.

   The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell is covered with matching Moroccan leather which still remains in choice condition having no nips or cuts. It is really nice to see leather in this condition. The scabbard mounts are matching nickel type also being uncleaned. These mounts are all in excellent condition being retained by flathead side screws. It is interesting to note that the reverse of the center mount was originally equipped with the two holes where staples were used to retain the mounts to composition scabbards. In this case the two holes have been filled in by the factory and the mount was used up as a matter of course. These kind of things are always very interesting to collectors and that is the reason that I point them out. There is an early nickel chain attached being the type with flat wings. If you are not familiar with this type of chain assembly you can see one pictured on page 57 in the center in my Luftwaffe book. This fine matching chain is connected to the carrying rings at the upper and center mount. The connector is a matching nickel tab on each chain. There are nine ringlets on the upper chain and fourteen on the lower. The two chains are connected to an unmarked matching nickel snap clip.

   The blade is a fine bright example which has been nickel-plated. This blade still has good surfaces throughout with a needlelike tip. The blade grades nearly in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is etched with the trademark of this company. It consists of an ellipse design which contains the initials of the firm, “DM”. At the top of the ellipse is the firm’s name, “David Malsch”. Below is the area that this company came from, “Steinbach, Thur.”. There is also a waffen amt just to the right of the ellipse. The original blue leather blade washer is in place. A fine untouched early 1st model Luftwaffe Dagger.

   Excellent Plus. $1,395.00

7. LD1 #30986C Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger

   This 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger reflects earliest construction. The hilt parts are all of solid nickel base material and are very heavy. The pommel shows a few modest signs of wearing time but it is still in good condition, having a fine brass medallion sunwheel insert on both sides. There are signs of just the slightest of thinning on the nickeled areas between the legs of the pommel sunwheels. The brass sunwheels of the crossguards have no nickel left between the legs. The crossguard arms are gracefully done with downward flowing.

   Underneath the crossguard arms there is a professional engraving which is Roman numeral “I” “FLAK regt. 10”. This engraving indicates that this 1st Model Luftwaffe was owned by a Flak Regiment. With this information, it should not be difficult to do some research on this particular regiment. The grip of this example is the standard wood base. It is covered with Moroccan Blue leather which shows some wear to the surfaces, but there are no real breaks or problems. This leather is tightly with triple nickel wire that has a twisted center example.

   The scabbard is straight throughout. This scabbard shell is covered with matching Moroccan Blue leather. The leather shows some minor bumps and age, but there are no cuts or nips in this leather. Even most of the original grain is still there. The nickel scabbard mounts exactly match the dull patination of the hilt fittings. These mounts are in fine condition throughout, and they are retained by headless flathead side screws. The matching nickel chain is in position. This chain has 9 upper ringlets and 13 lower ringlets. They are connected to an unmarked matching nickel snap clip.

   The blade of this Early 1st Model Luftwaffe is as nice as they come. This blade is mirror bright and reflects outstanding quality nickel plated surfaces. Other than the usual runner marks, this blade is in full mint condition. The reverse ricasso is etched with the well-known logo of the seated king holding an upward pointing sword. The king sits on the firm’s monogram, “SMF”. Beneath is the name of the location, “Solingen”. The blue leather blade washer is in place. The scabbard throat of this example is marked “69”. A very fine researchable 1st Model Luftwaffe here.

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,695.00

8. LD1 #31007 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - F. & A. Helbig

   This early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has never been cleaned since the war. It shows some usage and age but overall it is still in a collectible state. This dagger has highest quality solid nickel hilt parts. These hilt parts have patinated to a dull yellowy color. The sunwheel swastikas at the pommel and the crossguard are the brass medallion types which are soldered into place. The medallions are completely down to the brass and I do not see any plating left between the sunwheel swastika’s legs. Nevertheless the fittings are still in good condition, the circumference around the pommel still being crisp and the same is true to the three stage sections of the downward tipping crossguard arms. The grip is a wood base. It has sections which run downward from left to right. The grip has the original Moroccan leather covering. The leather shows some scuffs and there is also a small piece missing at the lower ring but we colored it in a little bit with some dark marker and it is almost invisible. This leather is tightly wrapped with triple nickel wire, the center being twisted.

   The scabbard shell is straight throughout. The leather on this shell also shows age and usage but quite honestly there are no bad cuts and it still looks pretty good. This leather nicely matches that of the grip. The shell is fitted with matching highly patinated nickel mounts. These mounts are still in good condition throughout. The reverse of the upper mount has an inscription which was most likely done by the GI who liberated this piece. Neatly scratched into the surfaces is “Frank and Jo Foxx”, then “World War II / 1945 / Cologne, Germany”. Since this personalization was done on the reverse it does not show if the dagger is going to be displayed. These mounts are secured with all in place headless side screws. The chain is of matching nickel and it is one of the seldom seen flat ring types. If you are not familiar with this type of chain you can see it in my Luftwaffe Book on page 57 in the center lower photo. This chain is the same as the example in the book. It is fitted with eight upper ringlets and ten lower ringlets. They are connected to a matching unmarked solid nickel clip.

   The blade of this piece is still nice and bright. It has some in and out marks but it still remains in excellent condition easily grading excellent plus, plus. The maker marking is quite faint on this blade but there is enough there to see that it was produced by the F&A Helbig firm and that word that appears in the middle of their ellipse logo, “Saeffer” is still readable. There is also just the slightest remains of a waffen amt which was stamped below this. The blade leather washer is in place. A good Luftwaffe dagger here for someone on a budget and also an opportunity to look up the record of an American war veteran.

   Excellent. $995.00

9. LD1 #31091 Transitional 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – E. & F. Hörster

   This early dagger is the transitional type that we see occasionally. These daggers have a scabbard shell which has no metal in it and is made of a composition material, we’ll get to this further down in the description. The hilt mounts are solid nickel and the edges of the pommel show some mild wear with one small hit at about the ten o’clock area of the reverse. The swastikas are the medallion insert type and the sun wheels have a fine brass surface. All of the plating appears to be still intact between the legs. One of the reasons for this is that the brass swastikas are raised out quite a bit on this example. The same is true of the sun wheel swastikas on the crossguard. The crossguard arms are nicely formed and are still crisp. The grip is a wood base having Moroccan leather covering. The leather is still in perfect condition showing some wear to the graining but nevertheless still intact. This grip is wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted.

   The scabbard shell, as mentioned above, is a composition material. It is covered with a matching Moroccan blue leather. This leather shows some bruises and quite a bit of usage but there are no bad cuts in it and it still is mostly intact. Sometimes these composition scabbards will have quite a bit of runner push out caused by the pressure of the blade against the runners but this scabbard looks pretty good. If you have a copy of my Luftwaffe book you can see an example that looks quite a bit like this on page 39, right. The scabbard mounts are solid nickel. They are retained by large matching nickel staples which are installed on the rear of the mounts. Connected to the center and upper mount is a fine nickel chain. The upper chain has eight ringlets while the lower example has thirteen. Both chains are connected to a matching unmarked solid nickel snap clip.

   The blade of this example is still bright showing a little bit of age from about the halfway point down. A lot of this could be fairly easily removed with a little rubbing with some Simichrome or the like. The tip on the reverse also has a slight ripple but it is not bad. Overall this blade grades at about excellent to excellent plus but as I say could be made to look a lot better. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the early waffenamt being the style eagle used up until about 1937. This bird has a numeral “5” stamped into his belly.

   Above the waffen amt is the trademark. It consists of double ovals which contain the firm’s name and location, “E&F Hörster Solingen”. In the center is a large letter “H” and within the “H” are two smaller letters, “HS”. These letters have a downward pointing sword coming through them. This blade is buffered by a matching blue grain leather washer. An interesting dagger here which is not anywhere near mint condition but it still is what it is and was worn probably during most of the 1930s decade. A fine example if you are collecting “types” or just want an initial production dagger.

   Excellent. $1,595.00

10. LD1 #30560 Late 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger

    This later 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has the pot metal zinc based hilt fittings. You can always tell these at a glance as the butt plate below the crossguard area is thicker than the other types that you will see. Unfortunately the silvering or nickel usually didn’t hold up to well on these zinc based fittings and rarely do you see any gilding remaining to the sunwheel swastikas. On this example both the pommel and the crossguard show a bit of patination and there does seem to still be some silvering there. The pommel has crisp edges and the sunwheels are still quite prominent but blend into the rest of the patina. The crossguard seems to also have quite a bit of the original finish remaining. The reverse crossguard has good sunwheels whereas on the obverse the sunwheel swastika has turned green probably from some moisture that accumulated near it. The grip is the standard wood base type. This grip has outstanding Moroccan blue leather. This leather still has its original graining and is in near mint condition. This leather is tightly wrapped with triple silver wire, the center being twisted.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell also has outstanding original blue Moroccan leather. This leather shows only the mildest of age but still remains in perfect condition with no hits, nips or problems. The scabbard mounts are the silvered steel base type. They have patination matching the hilt fittings. These mounts are in perfect condition throughout and they are retained with flathead flush mount screws. The chain is the aluminum type. This chain has six upper and ten lower ringlets. They are connected to a “Ges. Gesch.” marked matching aluminum clip which is also maker marked “OLC” in a diamond.

    The blade of this example is a fine one. It has outstanding mirror finish nickel-plated surfaces and retains its needlelike tip. This blade is in full mint condition. It is marked on the reverse with the scale trademark used from 1937-1939. It exhibits the scales having the firm’s initials interspersed and above these scales in an arch shape is the block lettered name, “Alcoso” and below the location of “Solingen”. The original blue leather blade buffer is in place. A decent example here probably produced as the war was beginning in 1939.

    Excellent Plus. $995.00

11. LD1 #29915 Mid-Period 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - E. & F. Hörster

    Usually the mid-period examples did not retain their silvering, to say nothing of their original gilding to the swastikas. This example is an exception and in my opinion is a very rarely seen sight. The mid-period fittings on this example still retain nearly all of their silvering. The silvering has a fine dark patination as it does not look to have ever been cleaned. The pommel shows a little usage and the sunwheel swastikas actually still have some gilt to their finish. These swastikas look to be about 90%. The crossguard also has good gilding to the swastikas also being about 90%. It is also interesting to note that the sunwheels across the crossguard have pebbling in their backgrounds. The downswept triple wing quillons match the pommel perfectly also having nearly 100% of the silvering and nice patination. The grip is a wood base being covered with rich blue Moroccan leather. This leather is in excellent condition throughout and still has its original graining. The leather is tightly wrapped with triple aluminum wire, the center being twisted.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This scabbard also has outstanding leather matching the color exactly and having good grain to its surfaces. This leather shows only normal usage signs and there are no nips or scuffs. The scabbard mounts are the silver plated steel type. They too have great preservation, all mounts having a black patina. These mounts are in perfect condition and are retained by headless flush mount side screws. Since this is a mid-period example it is equipped with an aluminum chain. This chain is equipped with seven upper ringlets and nine lower examples. They are attached to a standard nickel snap clip which is marked on the reverse, “OLC” and “Ges. Gesch.”. The clip still shows quite a bit of its original lacquer coating.

    The blade of this example is a real beauty. It is a quality nickel-plated finish and it retains its original needlelike tip. The finish is mirror bright and this blade rates in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is etched with the double ovals of this firm. The ovals retain the firm’s name and location, “E&F Hörster Solingen”. In the center is the large, “H” letter with smaller letters, “H” and “S” inside with a sword piercing their center. The blade is buffered by a matching leather washer. A really fine 1st model Luftwaffe here in outstanding condition being the mid-period type.

    Near Mint. $1,495.00

12. LD1 #28668 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – SMF

    This early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger does not appear to have been cleaned since the war. All fittings are heavy solid nickel and they have a fine rich yellowy tone to their patination. The pommel shows some normal wear around the outside edges and the sunwheel swastikas are the brass inlaid medallion type. There is still some silvering between the legs of the sunwheels but most of it has worn off. The crossguard sunwheels appear to have all of the silvering still between their legs. The crossguard has the downswept quillons and it is nice and crisp throughout. The grip is the standard wood base having ribs which run downward from left to right. The leather covering shows some usage and a couple of hits here and there but nothing severe and this grip still looks good. The grip leather is tightly wrapped with triple silver wire, the center being twisted.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell is covered with matching blue Moroccan leather. This leather shows some usage but no cuts or problems anywhere. Good scabbard leather here! The reverse upper area shows some wear to the graining which was probably caused by the original owner’s hand hold. The scabbard mounts are yellowy solid nickel having never been cleaned. The mounts are in good shape showing some surface usage but no abuse. These mounts are retained by headless flush-mount side screws. The matching solid nickel chain consists of nine upper and fourteen lower ringlets. The two chains are tied into a solid nickel unmarked snap clip.

    The blade of this example is a high quality nickel-plated type. The plating is still mirror bright and this blade easily grades in a full mint condition with its needlelike tip. The reverse of the blade is etched with the seated king trademark. The king holds an upward pointing sword and sits on the firm’s initials, “SMF”. Below this is the city, “Solingen” and the early stamping consisting of a waffen amt eagle having a number, “8” stamped into his belly. The beautiful mint blade is protected by the in place blue pebbled leather washer. A good untouched example here perfect for the collector who is looking for something with a historical look as well as still good condition. This piece does not appear to have ever been in a collection. I also just noticed that the throat has three small numbers stamped into it,”288”.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,495.00

13. LD1 #28420 Early Flight Marked 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - Paul Weyersberg

    This Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is equipped with all solid nickel mounts. The dagger shows some normal wear of the period, but overall is in excellent condition. The pommel shows some hits to the edges, but they are not deep and would be expected for a dagger that may have been carried for almost a decade. The pommel has the brass medallion inserts that feature sunwheel swastikas on each side. There is no silvering left between the legs of the sunwheels, and the area is nicely patinated. The same is true of the sunwheel inserts on the crossguard. This crossguard also shows some mild signs of usage, but the three-tiered downward swept quillon arms are still mostly crisp. The grip is composed of a wood base, being covered with Moroccan leather. This leather covering shows some wear across the upper surfaces, and there is no grain left to the leather. There are also a couple of nips at the lower section, but these are very old and the wood has almost turned to the color of the leather. Also, these could be easily covered with a portepee. The lower butt plate of the crossguard is flight marked, “H.Kp.l24”. This would indicate that the dagger was most likely the property of the Hildeshein Airport, and that the dagger belonged to the Kamph Group 24. These markings are deeply stamped into the surfaces. There are matching markings that are also stamped into the surfaces of the scabbard throat fitting.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. It is covered with matching Moroccan blue leather. This leather also shows a few signs of usage, but overall, it is in excellent condition and there are no nips or problems. The leather shell is fitted with nickel mounts. These mounts are in good condition, showing minor usage but no problems. The mounts are retained by flat head flush mount side screws, which are installed in the edges. The chain is the standard nickel type. It has nine upper ringlets and ten lower ringlets. It is attached to the standard unmarked nickel-style clip. I notice, also, that the clip at the very bottom is neatly stamped in very small numbers “155”. I don’t know what this number would mean.

    The blade of this example is a nice bright quality nickel plated example. It still retains its needle tip, and shows a little bit of in-and-out markings and some mild wear to the plating around the tip area, but overall this quality blade is still in near mint condition and is mostly bright. The blade is etched on the reverse with the dual oval trademark that captures the firm’s name and location, “Paul Weyersberg & Co., Solingen”. Inside of the ovals there is a sword pointing downward which pierces two wheat sheafs. Below the trademark is an early stickbird waffen amt, which has the number “5” in his belly. If you are looking for a dagger that has realism to it and also gives you something to research as far as the property markings go, this should be a very satisfactory example. Given that it was worn for nearly a decade, it has outstanding condition.

    Excellent Plus. $1,695.00

14. LD1 #28155 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – Carl Julius Krebs

    This early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is produced of heavy, quality mounts and does not look to have been cleaned since the war. The fittings throughout are patinated to a very dark black color. They really look terrific! The pommel cap is particularly stunning, as it is still factory crisp having choice brass sun wheel swastikas. These sun wheels are so well done they almost appear to be inlaid like the early DLV officer pieces. The silvering in between the sun wheel is all there. Despite the great look, these still are medallion insert sun wheels. The same look is true of the sun wheels at both sides of the cross guard. These sun wheels also have 100% silver in between the legs. The downswept cross guard arms are still crisp throughout. Underneath the quillon wing of one side is the number “40” stamped. The same matching number is stamped into the scabbard throat. The grip of this example is also a real beauty. The leather shows some wear to the surfaces but it has also turned an almost deep purple color. If you have ever looked any quantity of any 1st model Luftwaffes, you will see that some of them will get this look after much time. The leather is still excellent throughout this grip. There is still some grain showing and there are no cuts anywhere. Just good old-fashioned wartime hand wear! The grip has sections running downward from left to right and the leather is covering a carved wood base below. This leather is tightly wrapped with very thin triple brass wire, the center being twisted for effect. An outstanding hilt here!

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. It, too, has excellent original Moroccan blue leather. This leather shows some carrying wear but, with the exception of a couple of very minor nicks along the lower edge, the leather is still in choice, perfect condition. The scabbard mounts have the same black patination matching the hilt fittings. These mounts show some carrying wear but they speak more of the splendor they were around in the air fields of the Luftwaffe more than they do any kind of inordinate wear. These fine mounts are retained by headless, flush mount side screws. The matching heavy nickel chain has 9 upper ringlets and 14 lower examples. They are connected to an unmarked heavy nickel snap clip. This chain also has a fine patination to the surfaces, as does the snap clip. A really great outside here for those who like untouched things.

    The blade is also a beauty. It is an early type which reflects quality nickel plating. There are a couple of signs of mild age along the upper and lower edge, but they really are nothing and the blade still grades in near full mint condition. This fine blade bears the mark of a producer that I do not remember ever seeing on an early 1st model Luftwaffe. It is the Carl Jul. Krebbs name which appears over the location of “Solingen”. These letters are all on the inside of an oval shaped logo. In the center of the logo is a crown over the capital letter “K”. This fine blade has been protected by the original dark blue pebbled leather washer. If you are looking for an outstanding example in untouched condition as well as one with a rare maker mark, this one has to fill the bill. An outstanding early 1st Model Luftwaffe dagger here, for sure.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,395.00

15. LD1 #28801C Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - SMF

    This Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has exceptional fittings throughout. The pommel still has a fine crispness about it, although it does have a few wearing signs around the upper rim. All of the silvering, though, is still intact between the legs of the brass medallion insert. In fact, this sunwheel swastika even seems to have some gilt remaining. The crossguard sunwheels are the same way, also having the silvering intact between the legs. This is rare to see and is a good sign of how much a 1st Model Luftwaffe has received. The quillon arms are also exceptionally nice, having a fine graceful downturn to their triple design. The grip is a wood base covered with fine Moroccan leather. The leather is still in excellent condition throughout, with no problems. It does show some wear and there is not much grain remaining, but still, there are no cuts. This fine leather is tightly wrapped with triple silver wire, the center being twisted. A fine hilt here!

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. The original leather had a couple of spots along the lower edge, where there were some nips and some problems. We put in a couple of patches using original pieces of leather, and I must say, they really look good and are not noticeable. They are certainly a lot better than replacing the leather or nothing at all. This leather still has much of its original grain in the surfaces, but does show overall usage throughout. The scabbard mounts are matching nickel, having scalloped designs where they meet the shell. These fittings are in outstanding condition, and they are retained by headless flush mount side screws. The chain assembly is a matching nickel example. There are 9 ringlets for the upper chain and 14 for the lower. Both chains are connected to an unmarked matching nickel snap clip.

    The blade of this example is as nice as they come. It is a quality nickel plated type, and its surfaces are still in mirror condition. This mint condition blade has the seated king trademark on the reverse. The king sits on the firm’s initials “SMF”, while holding an upward pointing sword. Below the regent is the location “Solingen”, and below this is an early form of a waffen amt stamping. It is a stickbird eagle over the number “5”. This fine blade is protected by an in-place blue leather washer. A very fine 1st Model Luftwaffe here, showing usage of the period but no abuse. Highest quality construction!

    Excellent, Plus. $1,395.00

16. LD1 #27105 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - David Malsch

    This Early Luftwaffe Dagger is of initial production, and has good heavy solid nickel fittings throughout. The pommel cap shows only a bit of usage signs along the edges, and it is the style that has the sunwheel medallion insert. These sunwheels are all brass throughout, and none of the original silvering remains between the legs. The crossguard is a fine down-swept winged example, and this guard also shows some age to the plating. The sunwheel inserts are also completely all brass. Stamped beneath one of the crossguard wings is the number, “25”. The grip of this example is a wood base, covered with dark Moroccan blue leather. The leather is in good shape throughout, without any cuts or problems. It does show some wear, however, to the surfaces, and there is not a lot of graining still left in this leather. This leather is tightly wrapped with a single twisted silver wire.

    The scabbard is a steel shell covered with matching blue Moroccan leather. This leather shows signs of usage throughout, but there are no cuts or problems. The grain of this original leather is still quite good throughout the surfaces. The shell is equipped with matching nickel mounts. These mounts show overall carrying signs, but there are no bends, splits, or problems. The mounts are retained by flush mount headless screws in the edges. The chain is one of the desirable, but rarely seen, flat ringed type. These rings are the same as I show in my Luftwaffe book, on page 57, center. This all- nickel chain is equipped with 8 upper rings, and 13 lower rings. These flat ringed chains are connected to an unmarked nickel snap clip. The throat of this example is stamped with the number “3”.

    The blade is a fine, heavily nickel-plated, example. This blade is still nice and bright, showing the usual runner marks, but overall it is still quite nice, easily rating in a near mint condition. The ricasso is waffen amted with an early stick bird figure, having the number “5” in his belly. Lightly etched above the waffen amt is an ellipse, which has the firm’s name and location etched around it. It is etched, “David Malsch Steinbach Thur”. The center of the ellipse has the firm’s initials intertwined, “DM”. The original blue pebbled leather washer is in place. This dagger shows some carrying time, but overall, it is in excellent condition and is of high quality construction.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,295.00

17. LD1 #34113 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe with Crossguard Stamping – Gebr. Heller, Balloon Man Logo

    This early 1st model Luftwaffe is of initial production having great weight to it and being produced in all heavy solid nickel mounts. The piece was cleaned not too long ago and looks its best. The pommel has some carrying signs around both of the rims but nothing that is abuse. The sunwheel swastika is the medallion insert type. The brass swastikas on both sides look great and have about 95% of the original silvering still between their legs. The same is true of the two crossguard sunwheels. The crossguard arms have the attractive flowing down motion and are in three segment. The lower portion of one side of the crossguard is stamped, “225”. The other side of the crossguard is deeply stamping, “L.K.S. Ga.”. I’m not sure what this means but I would think that the letters stand for Luftwaffe Kampf Chule which of course would be a flying school for fighter pilots. I don’t know what the “Ga” means however. The grip is a fine example having a carved wood base. The grip leather is in near perfect condition showing only nominal signs of usage. There is still some grain showing in the leather and it is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell is covered with Moroccan leather exactly matching the color and grain of the grip. This leather shows the usual signs of usage and there are a couple of bruises here and there but fortunately there are no nips or separations of leather around the seam. Great leather here for a piece from this early vintage. The scabbard mounts are all in outstanding condition and even the lower mount shows only the most mild of usage. These mounts are retained by flathead flush mount unturned screws. The two lower screws are slightly “pushed” where maybe the dagger was dropped in the past but the damage is extremely nominal. The fine matching nickel chain is the style that has nine ringlets at the upper and fourteen ringlets at the lower. The connector tab which connects the chains to the scabbard rings has a nickel example at the top and the lower example is showing brass. This may be due to wear over the period or possibly the lower clip was replaced during the period. Either way these connecting tabs are original. The two chains are connected at the top to an unmarked early snap clip.

    The blade is a fine example having quality nickel plating and needlelike tip. The plating is still bright showing only the most minor of age signs but nothing that really takes away from its appearance. This blade easily grades in near mint condition. The reverse ricasso is marked with the ever popular balloon man. This vendor is carrying five balloons dangling above him while he apparently is walking through a children’s park or some other children’s area. Below the balloon vendor is the three line designation of the maker, their town and their area in Thringen Germany, “Gebr. Heller / Marientha / b.Schweira / thr.”. The original matching blue leather blade buffer is in place. An extremely nice early Luftwaffe dagger here. It is also interesting to have the flight group marked crossguard. If you are only going to buy one, this 1st Luftwaffe should make a great addition to your growing collection.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,695.00

18. LD1 #27153 Aluminum 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - SMF

    The fittings of this 1st Model Luftwaffe are the satin aluminum type. They are in good shape throughout, showing only minor usage signs. The cross guard area in the center has 100% of the gilt remaining to the sun wheel swastikas. The pommel, however, appears to have the swastikas perhaps painted into the area some time back and this paint is beginning to wear on the reverse, but is still pretty good on the obverse. Sometimes, these fittings were produced with no gilt on them and, apparently, this was the case with this example. Whoever painted the gilding in the swastikas, though, did good, as it does look better than if there were nothing there. The best thing, though, would be to find a replacement SMF pommel and that would add probably $300.00 to the value of this dagger. At any rate, the cross guard arms have good detail to their descending quillons. The grip is a wood base covered with Moroccan blue leather. The leather is still in perfect condition and is tightly wrapped with twisted aluminum wire.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. It has matching original blue Moroccan leather. This leather shows some usage signs but no cuts or problems. This scabbard leather is really good looking. The scabbard shell is fitted with satin aluminum mounts. These mounts show minor carrying time, but they have no dings or problems. These mounts are retained by headless side screws which are flush mounted. There is an aluminum chain attached. The chain has six upper ringlets and seven lower ringlets. The two chains are connected to an OLC marked clip.

    The blade of this example is still nice and bright. It is a plated surface and easily grades in near mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped with a stick bird waffenamt and the bird has a number “5" in his belly. Below the waffenamt is the seated king trademark. The king sits over the firm’s initials “SMF” which is over the city of “Solingen”. The original blade washer is in place. A nice 1st model aluminum Luftwaffe here, which would be terrific if you have an original gilded pommel.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,195.00

19. LD1 #25911C Untouched 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - David Malsch

    This 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has never been cleaned, and does not look to have ever been apart. It has substantial patination throughout, and is a good one for those of you out there that like these kinds of pieces. This one looks to have just come out of the woodwork, and has all of its history clinging throughout its surfaces. The pommel shows some mild usage around the rim, but is still in good condition. It is fairly dark patinated, but it is possible to see that there is still some silvering between the sunwheel swastika legs. The brass swastikas are the medallion insert type, and they are in good condition. The same is true of the sunwheels at the crossguard. These appear to have more silvering between the legs. The downswept crossguard quillon arms are very black with patination. It is possible to see, though, that the segments are still nice and crisp throughout. The grip still has excellent original leather. This leather shows some wear to the graining across the top of the ribs, but there are no cuts, and it is all still there. The leather is tightly wrapped with triple silver wire, the center being twisted for contrast.

    The scabbard shell is straight throughout. The steel-based shell is covered with Moroccan blue leather, which exactly matches that of the grip. This leather still has most of the graining showing, being a little bit thinned at the handhold, between the two fittings. The leather, though, shows very little usage, and is all there. It is rare to see original leather still in this condition. The scabbard mounts are deeply patinated, matching the hilt fittings. These mounts show some usage throughout, but overall, they look to be in good condition, with no bumps or problems. Each mount is retained by flush mount, headless, nickel screws on each side. The chain assembly is a fine example, being the style with flat rings. These flat style rings can be seen in my Luftwaffe book, on page 57, center. This chain assembly is identical to the book example, as is the snap clip. There are 9 upper ringlets, and 14 lower ringlets. The chain is connected to the scabbard carrying rings, via two nickel tabs.

    It is a pleasure to view the blade on this example, as it is mirror bright, contrasting drastically with the toned fittings. This blade reflects high quality nickel plating. It shows a little bit of age here and there, but overall, the blade is still in bright, near full mint, condition. The reverse ricasso is etched with the producer’s ellipse logo. The firm’s name and location are positioned around the ellipse, “David Malsch, Steinbach (Thur)”. Inside of the ellipse is the firm’s initials, “DM”. There is also a waffen amt, positioned next to the logo, on the side of the ricasso. This waffen amt is the early style stick bird, and it is positioned over the numeral , “8”, but in all likelihood it is the number '5'. The original blue leather blade buffer is in place, and has done a good job protecting this blade. A fine untouched example, having many desirable features for the “type” collectors out there.

    Excellent, Plus. $1,395.00

20. LD1 #27312 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - SMF

    This early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has never been cleaned and other than the fact that the scabbard has been recovered, is in “as-found” condition. The fittings throughout are heavy solid nickel. They have a large amount of greenish patination covering them, but this would clean up if someone wanted to do it. The pommel shows very little carrying time, as the edges are still nice and crisp. The brass medallion inserts are nice and crisp and appear to have the silvering still intact between the swastika legs. This is true also of the center mount sun wheels. The cross guard quillon arms slope downward, having three-section style wings. The grip is a wood base having dark blue Moroccan leather covering. This original leather is still in good condition, not showing a lot of grain but no cuts either. This grip is tightly wrapped with diminutive triple twisted brass wire. The scabbard shell is straight throughout. As noted above, this scabbard shell has been recovered with new blue Moroccan leather. Other than the fact that the leather has no scuffing or usage signs, it is comparable to the original covering and nicely matches the tone and texture of the grip. The scabbard mounts are in perfect condition, having matching patination of the hilt. The chain assembly is the seldom seen style with desirable “flat edge” ringlets. These ringlets are the same as I show in the bottom photograph on Page 57 of my Luftwaffe book. The two chain assemblies have nine ringlets at the top and fourteen at the bottom. They are attached to an unmarked nickel snap clip. The clip and chain patination exactly match that of the rest of the dagger. The blade of this piece has a quality nickel plated finish. The nickel plating is still nice and bright and other than some mild in-and-out markings, is still in mint condition. This fine blade is etched with the seated king trademark. The king has an upward pointing sword and sits on the firm’s initials “SMF”. The town of “Solingen” is below. The blade has been protected by an in-place, blue pebbled leather washer. Although this scabbard has been recovered, this is a good starter piece as it is all there and, with a little cleaning up, would really be a nice display example.

    Excellent Plus. $995.00

21. LD1 #34734 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – F.W. Höller

    It is most unusual to find a mid-period 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger that still has not only all of its silvering still there but also has quite a bit of the original frosted finish. These daggers did not hold up very well basically because the metal used on the hilt was pot metal and it did not take well to the silver plating. This example does not appear to have been worn very much and it must have been properly stored since it was brought home as a war trophy. The pommel is in excellent condition showing only nominal usage around the crisp edges. The sunwheel swastika still has quite a bit of the original gilded surface. It is hard to say just how much but this sunwheel is definitely glowing. The same is true of the crossguard sunwheel. Just trying to think back, it has been a long time since I have seen any gilt on a mid-period piece like this. The crossguard arms also have lots of the frosted silver on their three down turned segments on each quillon. The grip is a carved wood base having ribs running downward from right to left. The grip is covered with fine Moroccan blue leather and the leather is still in fine condition being wrapped with triple twisted wire, the center wire being a coppery springy type that was almost exclusively used by Höller.

    The scabbard shell is as nice as the grip having choice original Moroccan leather covering. This covering is in near perfect condition having only a minor scuff on the lower edge. Beautiful grain here and fine blue color. The scabbard mounts are the steel base type and they too have frosted remains throughout all of the mounts. Again, it is very rare to see this state of preservation. The mounts are retained by headless flush mount screws, all of which are present. The original wearer of this chain apparently was a tall man as the chain is slightly shorter than we normally see them. This chain is an aluminum example having three ringlets on the upper and six ringlets on the lower chain. The chains are attached to a matching aluminum snap clip which is marked on the reverse, “Ges. Gesch.” and “OLC”.

    As we would hope, the blade of this example is a beauty. This blade has a fine nickel-plated mint mirrored surface and is easily in full mint condition. The tip still remains needlelike and the reverse ricasso is etched with the double ovals of this maker’s trademark. The name, “F.W. Höller” as well as the location city, “Solingen” are within the two ovals. Inside is a thermometer having too many digits to ever count. The beautiful blade is protected by the original matching blue grained leather washer. A most interesting piece here in condition seldom encountered.

    Near Mint. $1,195.00

22. LD1 #29240 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – SMF

    This early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has all nickel mounts throughout. The mounts do not look to have been cleaned in many years. The pommel has good crisp edges and the brass medallion sunwheels are in good condition having some wear to the areas in between the sunwheel legs. The crossguard sunwheel still has the silvering between the legs. The crossguards are in good shape being the three segment downward curved type. The grip is a wood base having carved ribs which descend left to right. This wood grip is covered with a fine Moroccan leather which still remains in excellent condition and retains its original grain. This grip is wrapped with triple wire, the center example being twisted. The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This scabbard shell is wrapped with matching Moroccan leather which other than normal usage signs here and there is still in perfect condition with no nips or scuffs. The nickel scabbard mounts have an excellent patination throughout and they are all in fine condition being retained with flathead flush mount side screws. The matching nickel chain is made up of nine upper ringlets and thirteen lower ringlets. These ringlets are connected to an unmarked nickel clip at the top.

    The fine blade is a nickel-plated example which has outstanding mirror surfaces. There is just a slight ripple at the end where the tip may have been put into some wood but it is barely noticeable. The reverse ricasso is etched with the seated king trademark. The king holds an upward pointing sword and rests on the firm’s initials, “SMF”. Below is the location city, “Solingen”. The blade is protected by an in place blue pebbled washer showing some age around the edges. A nice 1st Model Luftwaffe here.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,195.00

23. LD1 #34261 "Field Day" 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - Carl Eickhorn

    This is one of the rarely seen "Field Day" pieces that were assembled by the Carl Eickhorn firm from leftover parts to act as prizes for a field exercise apparently held by the US army. The Eickhorn firm must have rummaged around their factory and looked for compatible parts to make up this "Field Day" piece. I have seen others with this same composition.

    The pommel, crossguard, scabbard, blade, and chain are all aluminum 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger parts. The grip is from a 2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger, and the ferrule that was used is from a "Railway Bahnschutz" officer. The pommel shows a little bit of usage around both of the rims. The faces however, on both sides are still nice, having 100% of the gild to the sunwheel swastikas. The crossguard below has no damage at all, and remains in mint condition, also having 100% gild to the swastikas. The arms of this crossguard are the triple staged type, with a downward slant. The ferrule is in perfect condition, as mentioned above being the Railway Officer type. The grip is a fine, 2nd Model Luftwaffe, being a pumpkin orange color. This grip remains in perfect condition, but never had any wire on it, and there were never any holes drilled to accomodate the wire at the top and bottom portions of the grip. A very interesting hilt here!

    The scabbard shell is as straight as an arrow, and has absolutely perfect, original blue Moroccan leather. This leather still retains all of its fine grain. The scabbard mounts are also beauties, having the fine satin finish that these aluminum mounts always seem to retain. These mounts are secured with flat head flush mount side screws. The aluminum chain is also an interesting example. It has a coat of lacquer over the surfaces, and over the years, this lacquer has turned a golden color, giving the illusion that the chain is gilded. It is also interesting to note that the snap clip is not the usual "olc" marked type. This example is the rarely seen variety made by the Assmann firm. It is marked with a large "A", and the patent issued marks "DRGM". This chain has six upper ringlets, and ten lower ringlets. The ten ringlets at the bottom is a number which is larger than we usually see.

    The blade is a fine, 1st Model Luftwaffe, having excellent nickel plated surfaces and needle-like tip. There are a couple of signs of age here and there on this blade, but overall, it is still nearly mint. It is darkly etched on the reverse with the 1935-41 squirrel trademark. The squirrel is holding a downward pointing sword, and positioned to the viewer's left. Above and below the squirrel are the usual Eickhorn termininology "Original Eickhorn Solingen". The blade washer is in place. These "Field Day" pieces are highly collectible, and this is a great opportunity to own one of these examples, made for the United States Army from original Eickhorn parts.

    Near Mint. $1,495.00

24. LD1 #33403 Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - SMF

    This Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger has the heavy nickel fittings throughout and does not look to have been cleaned in many years. The pommel is in good condition, showing only a couple of minor signs of wear along the rim edges. The two sunwheels are the medallion insert type. These brass sunwheels have most of the original nickel still between the legs of the symbol. The center block crossguard sunwheels are about in the same condition. The crossguard arms show only nominal usage, both curving down nicely and being made in three segments. The lower arm of one crossguard has an etching, “GR24”. The scabbard shell is straight throughout. When we first acquired this example there was no leather on the scabbard, so we recovered it. The recovered leather looks fine and exactly matches the color of the grip. The scabbard mounts are the early nickel type, exactly matching the dull patination of the hilt mounts. These mounts are in excellent condition throughout, showing some usage. The mounts are retained by flush mount headless screws. Connected to the upper and center mount is a nickel chain. This chain has 9 ringlets at the upper and 14 ringlets at the lower. They are connected to a nickel unmarked snap clip. The blade of this example is a fine nickel-plated type, still having most of its original sheen to the surfaces. There were a few nicks in the edges of the blade, and we got most of them out with only minor traces still visible. Apparently, someone was sword fighting with this dagger. The blade, though, looks really good compared to the way it did when we first acquired it. The reverse ricasso is etched with the seated king trademark. The king holds an upward pointing sword and is resting on the firm’s initials, “SMF”. Below, in an upward arch shape, is the location city, “Solingen”. The original leather blade washer is in place with some minor age to the edges. A good dagger here for the budget minded person or for someone just getting started. It has some restoration work, but it is priced accordingly.

    Excellent. $995.00

25. LD1 #32914 Untouched Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - Paul Weyersberg

    This 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is in an untouched state and does not appear to have been cleaned since the war. The mounts are the early nickel type. The pommel, as well as the crossguard swastikas, appear to show some wear between the sunwheel legs, but there is so much patination throughout the surfaces, it is difficult to tell. The brass sunwheels, though, look pretty good against the dark backgrounds. The crossguard arms are still fairly crisp and are in good condition. The grip is a carved wood base, being covered with Moroccan leather. The leather has a couple of scrapes on some of the ribs, revealing the wood beneath. This can be easily covered with some meltonian shoe cream available in good shoe stores, or you can google them on the Internet. The leather is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell has matching Moroccan leather and the leather is in good condition overall, showing usage signs in the surfaces. Unfortunately, the leather has pulled back a little at the upper left edge, where the seams come together. The area, though, is quite dark and, therefore, is not very noticeable. The scabbard mounts are also uncleaned and have a dark patination throughout. They al seem to be in good condition, and they are retained by headless flush mount side screws. The matching nickel chain is equipped with 8 upper ringlets and 13 lower examples. They are connected to an unmarked matching nickel snap clip. It is interesting to note that the scabbard throat is marked with the number “84”. The blade is also numerically marked with the number “5”. I do not know why the numbers do not match, but with these type of accountability numbered Luftwaffes, we often see this as the daggers were probably issued to flight candidates, and chances are the scabbards frequently got mixed with other daggers. The blade is a fine nickel-plated type. It is nice and bright and still remains in mint condition, having only runner marks in the center. The reverse ricasso is etched with the double ovals which contain the firm’s name and location, “Paul Weyersberg & Co/Solingen”. In the center is a downward pointing sword positioned between two wheat sheafs. The original blue leather blade buffer is in position. This is a good dagger for someone who likes to clean things up. In the case of this example, the patination is really not even throughout, so it wouldn’t hurt to clean this dagger if the next purchaser is of that mind. A good sound early example.

    Excellent. $1,295.00

26. LD1 #32913 Initial Production 1st Model Luftwaffe - Carl Eickhorn

    This early Carl Eickhorn dagger has the 1st type small double oval trademark, which is an indication that it was one of the first examples produced. All mounts are of solid nickel construction throughout. The pommel shows a little bit of usage marks on the obverse edge, but the reverse edge is still crisp. The sunwheels are outstanding brass inserts, and on both the crossguard and pommel all of the silvering is intact between the swastika legs. These are nice hilt mounts that would clean up greatly, if desired. The grip is a carved wood base covered with blue Moroccan leather. This leather still remains in excellent condition throughout, having much of the grain still there. It is unusual to note that the grip is wrapped with a single brass wire, which is of fairly large proportion. Normally, early daggers have triple wire wrap, but there is no question that this grip is original and untouched. The scabbard shell is straight throughout. The shell is covered with matching blue Moroccan, also having lots of grain throughout. The surfaces of this leather, though, have seen quite a bit of carrying time and there are little hits, bumps, and in some cases, some small scuffs that do mar the surfaces. There is really only one small nip where the leather reveals the metal below and that is on the lower left edge beneath the center ramp. A good coat of naval meltonian shoe cream will cure most of the problems on this scabbard leather. It is really not that bad, and considering that this dagger was originally produced in 1934, that is a lot of years of this weapon being carried. The scabbard mounts are deeply patinated, having never been cleaned. They are all in pretty good shape showing some wear signs, but nothing that is detractive. These mounts have all of the screws intact, being the headless side mount type. The matching chain is also highly patinated. It consists of 9 ringlets on the top and 14 ringlets on the lower. Both chains are connected to a matching unmarked nickel snap clip. The blade of this example is a high quality nickel-plated type. It would be in full mint condition, except for a couple of scratches noticeable about an inch or so from the tip. There is a scratch on each side of the blade, which indicates to me that someone was trying to pry something up with this blade. I don’t know why people did this sort of thing, but we do see blades used for the wrong purpose quite a few times. At any rate, if it were not for the two scratches, the blade would be in mint condition. It retains its needle-like tip. The reverse ricasso is etched with the small double ovals used from 1933 through 1935. It is very rare to see a 1st Model Luftwaffe with this trademark, as few were made. The firm’s name and location are contained within the two ovals, “Carl Eickhorn, Solingen”. There is a crisp seated squirrel inside, having a nut in his paws and fine serrated tail. The original blue pebbled blade washer is in place. An interesting dagger here, in an untouched state. This dagger comes out of a recent “motel buy”, and has never been in a collection.

    Excellent. $1,495.00

27. LD1 #32819 Aluminum 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - Emil Voos

    This aluminum 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is a nice example. The mounts throughout are recognizable as Eickhorn vintage. Emil Voos was primarily an assembler and did not produce any of their own fittings. We also see this to be the case on the 2nd model Luftwaffe daggers. The aluminum mounts throughout still have a good look to them, showing some usage and a few scratches here and there but nothing that is unexpected. The pommel is the more rounded edge type typical of Eickhorn’s production. The rim edges are mostly crisp but do show a couple of hits. The sun wheel swastikas still have about 95% of their original gild. The gild is more of a muted type on Eickhorn production. The center block sun wheels are in a little better condition than the pommel but they, too, show some minor usage and carrying scratches. The gilt, though, is about 98% throughout. The cross guard arms are still crisp with good gently flowing downward action. The grip is a carved wood base covered with dark blue Moroccan leather. This Moroccan is in perfect condition throughout, not showing a lot of grain but not much wear either. This grip leather is tightly wrapped with dual aluminum wire with the larger wire being twisted. The scabbard shell is straight throughout. This shell has near perfect original leather on the obverse and the reverse has a couple of scuffs, but nothing serious and still looks to be in good condition. There is one bump just below the upper fitting on the rear. The matching aluminum scabbard mounts have the same satin finish as the hilt fittings. These mounts show mild usage but with this aluminum they also seem to appear ageless. These mounts are retained by flush mount headless screws which appear unturned. The chain assembly is the aluminum type. It is interesting to note that both assemblies have 6 ringlets instead of fewer ringlets at the top assembly. Apparently, this was the fashion used by Voos, as all of these links appear original to this piece. The chain assemblies are attached to a matching aluminum snap clip being “OLC” and “ges. gesch.“ marked on the reverse. There is a nice belt loop attached to the snap clip. It is of a darker brown leather color retained by a rivet. The “D” ring is a steel variety being slightly more delicate than we see, but it appears completely original. The blade of this example has a high quality mirror nickel plated finish. This blade would be in full mint condition were it not for a couple of nicks that are on the upper edge. The bright condition of this blade makes up for a lot though and these nicks maybe can be overlooked in this case. A beautiful blade here! The reverse ricasso is stamped with the logo of this quality firm, being a snake wrapped around a stump. To the right is the firm’s name and location “Emil Voos Solingen”. The original blue leather washer is in place. A nice dagger here with a couple of flaws and some mild wear, but still a real looker.

    Excellent. $1,195.00

28. LD1 #31346 Transitional 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger - Puma

    This transitional 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger is in “as found” condition and has never been cleaned. If you like a dagger with all the war as well as the post war years shown in its patination this example should really be for you. It is an initial production 1st model Luftwaffe having the transitional scabbard type with no metal shell and fittings retained via staples. If you do not know what these daggers look like this example is almost a dead ringer for the one that I show on page 39, far right. The hilt fittings are of all solid heavy nickel material. They are fully patinated but you can see that the rim of the pommel does not have a lot of carrying time but does have its share. The sunwheel swastikas are the medallion type and they still appear to have the nickel surfaces between the legs. This is a good point. As these surfaces were easily worn away to the overall brass base. The same is true of the crossguard sunwheels. They are in the same good condition. The quillon arms both spread downward and are in three segments. I don’t see any waffen amts or markings on the ends of these crossguards. The grip of this example is a wood base type having been covered with blue Moroccan leather. Although most of the grain seems to be gone from the leather there are no cuts or problems with this grip. In fact it looks quite well. The grip is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire the center being twisted for contrast. A good looking hilt here if you know what you are gazing at! The scabbard shell is the type which has a composition base. The base is covered with Moroccan blue leather which exactly matches that of the grip. The lower portion of the scabbard shell has a little bit of runner push out which is pretty normal for these pieces. Obviously there is no metal shell so the runners themselves after years of being pressed upon by the blade from the inside, begin to push out the leather slightly. This push out is very similar to the examples you can see in my book on page 39 or page 40. Like the grip though this original leather is still in pretty good condition having no cuts or problems. In fact there is still quite a bit of the original grain still appearing in the surfaces. The three scabbard mounts have matching dark patination exactly the same as the hilt fittings. These mounts are still in excellent condition and they are retained by the large style staples. These staples are also the same as the pieces shown in my book. The chain is a matching deeply patinated nickel type. It is attached to the scabbard via “S” clips. These clips can be seen on page 38. There are seven upper ringlets and ten lower ringlets. Both chain assemblies are attached to an early unmarked matching nickel snap clip. The blade of this example is really nice. It is a high quality nickel-plated example and it has really no flaws. This example is nice and bright and looks very impressive as it comes out of these old patinated mounts. This blade is in mint condition. It features a small style diamond logo which contains a mountain lion’s head over the firm’s name, “Puma”. At the bottom outside of the diamond is the location of “Solingen”. Below this is an early stick bird with a number “5” in his belly. The original blade washer is in place. Oh, I almost forgot to tell you that underneath one of the crossguard arms there are some old deep scratchings which appear to be “3/26/H.28”. I can’t be sure of the “H” letter but that’s what it appears to be to me. Perhaps there is something here that could be researched? A really nice example here and if you’re collecting Luftwaffe things it would be a great look on your wall to have an early 1st model transitional Luftwaffe next to a conventional one and perhaps an aluminum one.

    Excellent. $1,695.00

29. LD1 #28669 Aluminum 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger – Alcoso

    I do not remember ever seeing an aluminum 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger made by Alcoso. This is an interesting dagger and bears the last trademark used by the firm being the, “AWS” interspersed in the scales. The aluminum mounts though look to be in choice collectible condition. The pommel does show some scratches and a little bit of surface damage due to carrying time but overall the gilding is still near 100% and the pommel still looks good. The crossguard example is in perfect condition and these sunwheel swastikas have 100% gild. The crossguard wings slope downward and are the three-tiered variety. The grip is an excellent example being a wood base covered with Moroccan blue leather. This leather is in perfect condition and it is tightly wrapped with a single aluminum wire and a twisted aluminum wire. There is no wire missing here, this is the way this example was made. The scabbard shell is nice and straight. It has absolutely perfect blue leather covering. This leather has an outstanding grain and a nice sheen to it. The scabbard mounts are the matching satin aluminum type. These mounts are in near pristine condition and are retained by flush-mount headless side screws. There is a matching aluminum chain which has six upper and eight lower ringlets. They are attached to an OLC marked snap clip which also has the patent pending stamping, “Ges. Gesch.” The blade of this example is bright throughout having outstanding nickel-plated surfaces. The obverse blade is in full mint condition. The reverse blade is also extremely nice having a couple of tiny smudges which appear toward the end of the blade. This takes the blade from a full mint rating but it still easily is near mint. The reverse ricasso as indicated above is etched with the scales trademark having the last initials used by this firm, “AWS”. To the right is the script name of the company, “Alcoso” over, “Solingen”. This trademark was used in 1942 and reflected the name change from Alexander Koppel Solingen to Alexander Werks Solingen. The Alcoso firm was Aryanised and in 1942 the two Koppel brothers were arrested and sent to a concentration camp. Blades bearing this last trademark are rare to see. An interesting Luftwaffe example here and very rare with this trademark.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,495.00 (#012512)