SPO - 001 - 27137C – 2ND MODEL TRANSITIONAL NAVAL WITH DAMASCUS BLADE – WKC

This choice dagger with Damascus blade appears in full color in my Naval book on Pages 385 and 386. The fittings are of good quality brass and show some usage. In fact, most of the gilt has worn off of them, but they still have good detail throughout. The pommel most likely at one time was a ball top, but it has been changed up to a standard WKC style 2nd pommel featuring the closed-wing eagle clutching a swastika in his talons. The detail is good throughout the bird’s head, eye, breast feathering, talons, wreath and raised swastika. The cross guard is nicely matching, having excellent depiction to the center block anchors. The quillon arms go outward with acanthus leaves and the button ends are nicely slotted with standard nipple quillons. The grip is a standard off-white celluloid-over-wood base. This grip is in excellent condition with no cracks or problems. It is tightly wrapped with twisted brass wire. This grip speaks well of the time the dagger was carried. The original aluminum style portepee is in place. The knot has a little bit of fraying where it comes out of the tie. The lower insert is the style with cat’s anus construction and it is a darker color gray than that of the aluminum bullion. This knot has been in the naval double reef tie for many years and is very set in place. The scabbard of this example is an early WKC variety, having good pebbled surfaces. This hammering is deeply done and the scabbard is straight throughout. The bands have outstanding overlapping oak leaf and acorn construction. The eyelets have also been hammered to match. The throat is retained by two headless side screws. The lower chape button is also hammered to match. A very fine scabbard here! The best part of this dagger, though, has to be the beautiful Damascus blade. This Damascus is rendered in a highly defined maidenhair pattern. It is in complete mint condition with needlelike tip and crisp dual fuller design. This beautiful blade is etched on the obverse ricasso “Deutscher/Offizier Verein/Berlin”. Obviously, this etching was the name of a retail store in Berlin where this naval officer chose to purchase his dagger. No doubt, this store also handled the naval uniform. The reverse of the blade is stamped with the WKC knight head, but the initials of the firm are not below it. This would indicate a vintage of perhaps 1929. The blade is protected by an in-place leather washer. Taking the grip off, I took a look at the tang, and the Damast blade is stamped with the number “10”. I did not see other numbers on the fittings. It is also possible that other stampings that may have been on this blade tang were ground off during the fitting process. An outstanding Naval dagger here, which will give much pleasure to the next owner.
Excellent Plus Plus. $9,495.00

SPO - 002 - 24610 – EARLY SA w/ DEDICATION – Wester & Butz (Anchor with star)

This is a beautiful SA example with dedication on the reverse blade. The condition is still exemplary, and I suspect it was never worn, as it was probably a very valued gift by its original recipient. The dagger is an early example, having nickel mounts throughout. The dagger does not appear to have been apart, nor has it been cleaned, not that it was ever dirty. The cross guards are nice and smooth throughout, and the edges still remain crisp. The reverse crossguard is Gau marked, “Om”. The grip is in choice perfect condition, having medium contour ridge construction. It exactly fits the crossguards, and I doubt the areas could even be penetrated with dental floss-that's how tight they are! This grip is a beautiful, lighter color, orange-toned wood. The wood has a pleasing grain, which runs lengthwise. The SA runes button is nicely placed and has 100% enameling. The grip eagle is an early high-necked type. The eagle is in choice condition, reflecting good detail to the head, breast feathering, wing feathering, wreath and swastika. Fine hilt here! The scabbard shell is also a beauty. It has nearly 100% anodizing, reflecting the most minor of rubs on both the obverse and reverse. The anodizing though, appears to be about 98%. Also, the original lacquer still remains protecting this anodizing. The lacquer also looks to be about 98%. The nickel mounts are in perfect condition, to include the never-dropped ball. These mounts reflect early nickel unturned screws. Very fine scabbard here. The blade, though, is the best part of this dagger. This blade remains nice and bright throughout, and all of the graining is present in the surfaces. The motto etch is crisp and deep and appears to have near 100% of the original darkening. There is a minor amount of smudge from a long ago fingerprint, which appears over the, “es” in the word, “Alles”, and also a little over the “ür” and “D” in the motto words. It is only slight, however, and possibly a little work could polish it out as otherwise, this obverse blade is in full mint condition. The reverse is also very beautiful and has just slight traces of age, but not enough to take it out of the mint rating. The reverse has a four line etch, which was not done by the factory, but would have been done locally. This etch has a slightly brighter background then does the trademark and motto, thus my feeling that it was done by someone other than the factory. At any rate, the etch is very beautiful with a frosted background. It reads, “Deine Treue der SA!/ Der Führer der Jägerbrigade 84/16. X. 1937/ Halzer/ Brigadeführer”. This dedication could be translated, “Always loyal to the SA! The leader of the Hunting Brigade 84, presented on October 16, 1937, Halzer, Brigade Fuhrer”. The name Halzer may sound familiar to some collectors, as his name appears on the other blades involving a ski competition, which have been, in my opinion, and in the opinion of other old-school dealer collectors, mistakenly identified is postwar etches. These Halzer ski competition examples are completely original. This example is also, and is unconditionally warranted to be so by myself, and other dealers. The trademark appearing on this plate is a seldom seen example. It consists of a double oval circle, which has embellishments to the outside diameter around the center area. These two ovals trap the firm's name and location, “Wester & Butz Solingen”. Inside, is a standing anchor, which on the shank has a five pointed star, pierced by an arrow. An interesting logo indeed, and one not seen very often. This is a great SA dagger and would make a nice addition to any advanced collection. The blade shoulders perfectly meet the crossguard contour.
Mint minus $3495.00

SPO - 003 - 25097 - HITLER YOUTH LEADER SILVER BROCADE BELT AND BUCKLE

This Hitler Youth Leader brocade belt and buckle is a beauty, being in an unissued state. The brocade belt features a silver bullion face with twin, wide black lines which run the length. It has two matching slides which also have twin black lines. The inside of the belt is lined with a brown canvas material. The brocade belt is completely pristine throughout. Attached to the reverse of the belt, is the original Hitler Youth red and off-white color printed paper tag. The tag has, “L RZM” the number, “3", rubber stamped, and the Hitler Youth diamond with swastika. Beneath this, is the number of this particular item, “005695". The paper tag is totally intact. Attached to the belt end is a silvered catch, and on the other is the matching silvered buckle with catch. This buckle has some patination to the edges and a little bit into the surfaces, but about 85% - 90% of it, is still silver frosted. The buckle is, of course, a round shape, having dual circles which are separated with roped designs. In the center, is the raised out Hitler Youth motto, “Blut und Ehre”. In the middle, is the Hitler Youth bird which has outstanding detail to his feathering, and he looks to the viewer’s right. This bird grasps a diamond with swastika. A beautiful depiction here. The reverse of the buckle is marked on the clip, “RZMM4/22". Attached to the reverse of the buckle hasp section, is the original red and white printed RZM tag. It is stapled to the belt section which has the leather part having the retainer holes. This issue tag is marked, “Koppelschloss”. Beneath this, is rubber stamped, “M4/22". On either side of this stamping, is the red and white RZM circle and the Hitler Youth diamond with swastika. Below this is the number, “213384". A beautiful example, looking as though it just came out of the shop where it was sold. This is your opportunity to purchase an outstanding, rarely seen Hitler Youth Leader’s brocade belt and silver buckle.
Mint. $1,995.00

SPO - 004 - 26985 – STAG GRIPPED DRESS BAYONET WITH ORIGINAL SHIPPING SACK – CARL EICKHORN

This Stag Gripped Dress Bayonet is a beauty, having full nickel plating throughout the hilt. This nickel plating still has its original factory shine and it is 100% throughout the bayonet. There are little to no signs of usage across these surfaces. The mortise lock and button work well. The original green felt is present in the rifle slot. This green felt is in perfect condition with no nips anywhere. The scabbard of this piece is the standard steel black painted type. The paint is still in excellent condition, having a little bit of wear at the ball, but otherwise appears to be all there. There are some signs of being around all these years, but the paint still rates in near mint condition. There is an interesting frog on this example which has the texture of a K-98 style, but it is thinner throughout. It is a black color and has two-rivet construction. The rivets are aluminum. It is also interesting to note that there is a stamping on the reverse “VA405/41”. I am not sure what this stamping would designate, but it is absolutely period. The blade of this piece is a beautiful short example, having the “stepped” pattern with narrow fuller. This blade is in full mint condition and could not be nicer. It is stamped on the reverse with the 1935-41 squirrel trademark. The original brown leather blade buffer is in perfect condition. The grip plates of this piece are a beautiful authentic stag. This stag has fine brown tones in its graining and shows little to no wear. The edges of the grip plates have turned an antique golden color. The grip plates are retained by two solid nickel rivets which have dressed heads on the obverse. Accompanying this choice bayonet is the original shipping sack. This paper sack is of a tan manila paper substance. It measures 16 inches long and at the top is about 4 inches wide. It tapers as it goes down. It is also interesting to note that there is a red stripe printed down the obverse of the sack giving it some real life. Printed at the top of the sack is the word “Seitengewehr”. Below this is the word “Ganze Länge/35cm”. This would designate that this is a bayonet and the blade length. It is interesting to note that below this is stamped with a rubber stamp “Hirschrone Schalon”. This indicates that the bayonet enclosed was one with stag handled grips. Running down the red stripe is the words “Original Eickhorn”. In the center is the 1935-41 squirrel. At the bottom is the Eickhorn model number for the short dress bayonet “NR.555”. On the opposite side of the bag, there is an advertisement which states the different items that Eickhorn sells in their line. A most interesting bag here, and worth a lot just on its own. A fantastic, un-issued example, or perhaps one which was worn one or two times, but the owner decided to keep the weapon with its issue sack. A great chance here for the sophisticated bayonet collector to increase his wares. Mint Minus. $1,195.00

SPO - 005 - 26989 – EARLY NAMED SS OFFICER DEGEN WITH PORTEPEE – NO MAKER

This is one of the best SS early degens I have handled over the years. It is of initial production and has solid nickel fittings throughout the hilt. These fittings have a nice yellowy look to them and were probably cleaned about 20 years ago. The hilt fitting is the style that has the turnout nut just below the pommel cap. The turnout nut appears to still be in choice condition, having no signs of ever being taken out. The pommel cap above is one of the silvered types and it has nice patination across its smooth top surface and good darkening to all of the fluting cuts which run around its perimeter. There is no sign of any tool being used to take out this pommel. The pommel does turn out, though, by hand and once it is out, the viewer is treated to the choice intact metal cup which protects the tang below. The “D” guard is in choice condition throughout, ending in a teardrop. This teardrop has the partially drilled decorative hole on each side. The lower ferrule is an outstanding example, having the six standing oak leaves with acorns between. The oak leaves all have the little circles which decorate the veins. The acorns have hand-done checkered caps. Looking at this beautiful ferrule, I would say that all of the original factory darkening is in the backgrounds. The top ferrule is also an outstanding example and we will talk more about this a little further down the description. The ebony grip is as nice as they come. It is the type where you can see the wood graining below and most likely the coating is lacquer, as there is an even sheen across this beautiful grip. This coating is factory done and shows little to no wear. Each of the 13 ribs is in choice condition and is tightly wrapped with silvered wire which also has a fine patination. The cover plate is in the reverse and has never been removed. The SS runes button matches exactly the dull nickel look of the rest of the hilt. The runes are nicely vaulted and behind them is 100% of the original dark background. Decorating this hilt is a wonderful SS portepee. This portepee is in totally perfect condition and is set in the officer tie. The knot consists of a textured bullion having twin black lines which run down the edges of both sides. At the lower area, there is a bullion thong-like slide and the stem is a flat type having a curvature to the surfaces. Both obverse and reverse are decorated with a black circle containing the SS runes. The lower oval ball is of all bullion, being nice and tight and in perfect condition. The insert at the lower ball matches the strapping of this choice SS portepee. This portepee is in near full mint condition with absolutely no signs of wear. The scabbard of this example is still nice and straight throughout. It has excellent original paint which shows a little bit of crazing in the surfaces, but there is little paint missing. I would say that the scabbard rates at about 98%. The paint also still has a nice luster to it. The lower fitting is a nickel plated example and it is pressed on, having no screws in it. This fitting is in choice condition throughout, having all of the blackening in the decorative lines. The upper scabbard fitting is also a beauty. It has the traditional wotan’s knot and the blackening within is still about 95%. It is very unusual to see this much blackening on one of these swords. This fitting is retained by two dome head style screws in the obverse and reverse positioned at the lower curl of the fitting. Both the scabbard throat and the lower hilt have the SS proof marks. The blade of this example is fantastic! It is the matte finish style and still retains its subdued luster. This blade is a tremendously long 35½ inch example! Obviously, the officer who carried this degen was a very tall man. The blade is in mint condition and it is protected by its white leather washer. This blade is unmarked, as we often find them on early swords. This sword looks identical to the example that I show in my SS book on Page 382, left, in color. Now for the best part of this sword, though. It is engraved on the top obverse ferrule in very small letters with the name and serial number of its original owner. It is engraved “K.W.Janssen/286914”. On the scabbard, just between the “u” fitting on the reverse and the upper scabbard fitting, the initials are scratched into the surface “KWJ”. Looking at my 1938 SS Officer’s Dienstaltersliste, I find that SS Untersturmfüher Karl Wilhem Janssen was a 1938 Bad Tolz graduate. This would have been the reason that he received his sword, as all SS graduates were qualified to receive the SS degens. He must have been extremely proud of this sword and that was the reason he had his name engraved on it, as well as his initials scratched on the reverse. The smallness of the engraving indicates that Jannsen was aware of the rules and did not put anything there that would really show when being worn. Nevertheless, it is a great boon for collectors, as now we have a sword that is entering the hobbyplace that has never been researched. Karl Wilhelm Jannsen entered the “Leibstandarte/SS” after graduation and upon receiving his degree from Bad Tolz. He was born July 8, 1917, so he was only 21 years old at the time. I do not see his name in the 1944 SS list, so it is possible that he was killed during the war. I am sure that he must have had an exciting military career, however, and all of this can be found out by the next owner of this magnificent sword. This is one of the best SS degens to surface in many years. It is a tremendous collectible and I have no doubt that it will make for an extremely sound investment for the next owner. Over the years, I have never seen these swords stumble in the slightest, and, in the last few years, their values have continued to escalate at untold proportion. A great, guaranteed original example here in very choice condition. Karl Jannsen, judging by the length of the sword blade, must have been one of those 6’ 4” or 5” Aryan types so sought after by Himmler’s SS! Mint Minus. $14,995.00(#050808)

SPO - 005 -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(#042908)

SPO - 006 - 24887 – Rural Short Police Clamshell Bayonet by E. & F. Hörster

This Police Clamshell bayonet is a very beautiful item. Being as it is the short style, I am sure that it was made for an Officer rather than a NCO. The bayonet overall, measures about 16”. The hilt itself is of smaller proportion than the norm. It also is cast in aluminum instead of nickel, making it extremely lightweight, and another reason, why it was probably made for an Officer. It is interesting to note that this bayonet, although a Third Reich item, is also equipped with a clamshell. The clamshell, though, is not aluminum and is actually a silver-plated nickel type. Probably, when the piece was new, the clamshell in silver, pretty much matched the aluminum color tone. Now, however, after some 70 years, this clamshell has patinated and has become a beautiful dark, near-black color. The detail, though, is extraordinary, showing the Prussian style eagle, with the half opened wings. The feathering and head detail, is second to none on this clamshell. The bird head details in aluminum are also beautifully rendered. It is easy to see that a lot of handwork went into enhancing the feathers on both sides of the eagle pommel, as well as the eye of the bird. The column has beautifully done oak leafing, which runs the length on the obverse side, and leaves half of it plain on the reverse. This hilt shows only nominal usage around the top parts, but from a distance looks new, as aluminum does not really show age. The grip plates are a fine, genuine stag. Both of these plates have medium brown color grains in their surfaces and are very pleasing to the eye. The edges, and the areas where the plates were trimmed, have all turned a golden antique color and could not look nicer. The plates are retained with nickel-plated steel rivets, and the stag below, has been countersunk to accommodate the dressed heads on the obverse. The scabbard is also quite unusual. It is actually a steel based shell, but it has been covered with a lighter brown-colored leather. This leather is also line decorated on the edge areas of both sides. The scabbard has been fitted with nickel upper and lower mounts. These mounts are nickel plated, steel base. The nickeling is choice throughout, and both fittings have numbers beneath the staples, which retain them. These fitting have scalloped edges where they meet the scabbard shell. There is also a fine darker brown leather frog. This frog is in outstanding condition, and is the style with rivet in the reverse. Attached to the frog is what appears to be an original Police leather style portepee. This portepee is not the type we usually see for rural being green in the mix of the stitches, but rather this one, has the red center stitch, coupled with the standard aluminum stitches that run the length of leather strapping. The slide is also black leather, having bullion and red highlights, and the ball has a flat stem, the type of which appears to have a crochet like bullion covering. The lower oval ball is bullion, having red, black, and white stuffing representing the national colors. It is interesting to note that the lug of this scabbard has developed a patination, which matches the clamshell. Apparently, this lug also has a silvering which seems to be purposeful. The choice blade of this example is 10 ½ inches in length. It is a narrow style bayonet blade, having a wide fuller design. It is totally pristine throughout, having highest quality nickel plated finish. The obverse blade is stamped with the Third Reich period trademark of this producer. It features the dual ovals, which trap the firm’s name and location, “E. & F. Hörster, Solingen”. Inside is the logo featuring the large “H”, with smaller “h” and “s” in the center, being pierced by a sword. There is also a factory brown leather washer, which is the style which slips off of the blade. This is a rarely seen Police bayonet style, and its condition is exemplary. It is perfect for someone out there looking for a highlight to a Police Bayonet collection.
Mint, Minus $1,995.00(#043008)

SPO - 007 - 26669C - 1ST MODEL RLB OFFICER - ALCOSO

The 1st Model RLB Officer examples are not seen very often, as many of these were converted to Second Models by the Nazis during the period. This particular example has somehow escaped the process and it is in magnificent condition. This dagger represents the earliest of production, and all mounts are of solid nickel material having heavy silvered surfaces. The dagger was recently cleaned and presents itself in its best light, being the same as it would have been worn some seven decades ago. The pommel cap is in choice condition, showing little usage around its rim. At the upper portion, it comes to a fine, pointed top. At its equator, there is a fine line decoration which runs around the circumference. Most of the original factory darkening is still in the recesses of this decoration. The cross guard is also in exceptional condition. This cross guard shows very little usage, having full silvering throughout, exactly matching the condition of the pommel. The guard features an art-deco style, stubby winged eagle which looks to the viewer’s right. The eagle retains a plain style open wreath which contains a mobile swastika. Running outward from the center block are two triangular shaped quillon arms. Each arm has three-line decoration. The right quillon end is stamped with a stick bird waffenamt. The waffenamt has the stamping “WaA” and the number “1". Probably, the rest of the numbers did not show, as the stamper did not hold the die completely straight. This same stamping was made to the scabbard throat. Waffenamts are only seen on very early First Model Officer pieces. They are a great way to judge vintage, as often they appear on early Second Model examples, letting the collector know his piece was once a First Model. The grip of this example is a wood base being bulbous in the middle and tapering to the ends with a fine hand-hold curvature. This grip has been period covered with leather. The leather is a fine grained Moroccan and it was installed in two pieces. The seams are barely visible but there is one on each edge of this grip. This leather still retains all of its graining and is in completely perfect condition. The center area of the obverse is fitted with the First style RLB grip button. This button features a sunburst background which shows a little bit of wear on the surfaces, but most of the silvering is still there. In the center area are the initials of the Reich Luft Bund, “RLB”. Below the initials is a matching mobile swastika. These renderings have blue enamel surfaces. The enamel is mostly all there, failing just a little bit at the bottom of the “L” letter and, on one leg of the “R” letter. Other than this, though, the enamel is perfect and rates at about 90%. A very fine hilt here! The scabbard shell is just as nice as the hilt. This shell is completely straight and has matching blue-black grained Moroccan leather. Like the grip, the scabbard was also done in two halves. The seams appear on either side of the scabbard’s edges. The graining shows no wear or any problems and this leather remains in perfect condition. The scabbard shell is fitted with silvered solid nickel mounts. These mounts remain completely perfect and could not be any better. They are retained by flathead style flush mount silvered screws. The screws are all present and are unturned. The upper scabbard mount is fitted with a ring. Attached to the ring is the original leather short hanger. This hanger still has supple brown leather which is decorated with lines running down both edges. This leather is retained by ovaled nickel discs which are riveted into place, one on each side. The clip at the top is a solid nickel example which is marked on the reverse “OLC”. This original hanger is in extraordinary condition. It is unusual to see a 1st Model Officer hanger in this condition, as normally, the strap was not of sufficient heft to carry the heavy weight of these daggers, thus the reason the RLB went to a center ramp with a dual set of straps in 1937. The vintage of this example is 1935. Because of the little usage, I would speculate that this officer may have been largely “honorary” and possibly only wore the dagger to a semi or annual meeting that he was forced to attend. The blade of this piece is as fine as the outside. It is completely mirror bright, having all of its original cross graining. The tip is still needlelike and the blade easily rates in full mint condition. Etched onto the reverse ricasso is the early vintage Alcoso scales. The logo features the scales with the firm’s initials “ACS” interspersed. There is no name used with this 1935-36 vintage logo. The original blue-black leather pebbled washer is in place protecting this beautiful blade. In looking at the washer, I also notice that there is quite a bit of original frosting which remains on the lower portion of the quillon cross guard arms. An exceptional dagger here which should fit into the collection of even the fussiest amongst us. Absolute original piece and a rare offering. Mint Minus. $7,495.00

SPO - 008 - 27180C - ARMY OFFICER WITH DAMASCUS BLADE - NO MAKER

This Army Officer has an outstanding all-black patina throughout. The fittings are the generic “B” style and they are identical to the examples I show on Page 99 of my Army book. The generic “B” fittings normally come with the type of pommel that has a threaded stem inside. This is the case here, and the pommel itself shows no hits along the outside rim and the upper area has a smooth surface throughout with mirror black sheen. The standing oak leaves are all positioned along the outside perimeter, separated by acorns. A good looking pommel here! The cross guard is also outstanding, depicting the noble eagle looking to the viewer’s left. All details are clear in the bird’s head, beak, breast feathering, wing feathering, wreath and raised out swastika. Like the pommel, this cross guard has the same attractive, shiny patination. The grip on this example is a pretty tangerine orange color, maybe being just the slightest tone lighter on the reverse. The grip is completely pristine and in crisp condition. Wrapped about the hilt is what appears to be the original Army 42cm portepee. This portepee is in perfect condition, showing only the most nominal of age. It is the style aluminum portepee which has the slide attached to the stem. The lower ball is also nicely fabricated, being just a little bit narrower than most of the examples we see. An outstanding Army portepee here! The scabbard of this piece is also a fine example. It has perfect silvering throughout and has taken on the same matching patina as the hilt fittings. The bands are nicely done, having hand work noticeable to the overlapping oak leaves and acorns. In fact, it is possible to see the original chiseling outlining the acorns on these bands to highlight them. At the top and lower edges of the bands, this engraver has also added some nice touches to the work. This kind of treatment is nice to see on a dagger that is equipped with an unmarked Damascus blade. The mint-conditioned scabbard has a thicker style throat and it is retained by two side screws which are headless and flush mount. Outstanding scabbard here! The blade of this example is a genuine Damascus hand-forged type. The tang is perfectly formed as to threads, blade shoulders, shape, etc. It has a hole drilled through the lower area which was probably used to suspend the blade in the acid bath which was necessary to bring out the pattern. The blade itself is absolutely beautiful. It has a very fine maidenhair style to it and it seems to have tighter grains than we normally see with most Damascus blades. This tip is needlelike and the center segment of the blade is also extremely well done, being positioned perfectly. This is definitely an old blade and not something modern made. It is a shame that it has no maker mark on the tang, but the stampings which identified the Damascus smith were often ground off during the fitting process. This blade, in my opinion, is an original Third Reich example. It is quite beautiful to examine and remains in complete mint condition. I am sure that the next owner will enjoy looking at this blade for many years to come. It is protected by an in-place, smaller style leather washer. A fine Army Officer’s dagger here. Mint. $5,495.00

SPO - 009 - 27179C - PERSONALIZED ARISTOCRAT’S ARMY OFFICER - CARL EICKHORN

This beautiful Army dagger is a most exciting piece. It belonged to an aristocrat who may have been a Knights Cross winner as well as an Army General, but we will get to this in a minute. The dagger itself is a choice-conditioned example which rates mint throughout. The fittings on this dagger are the early 2nd style. The early 2nd style cross guard is slightly different from what I show in my Army book on Page 25, being a progression of the 1st style which is shown on Page 24. The cross guard itself depicts a choice eagle design with breast checkering, which is slightly finer than Page 25, but, yet not as fine as Page 24. This is the prime difference between these eagles. The eagle, though, is in fantastic condition and clutches a wreathed raised out swastika. Even the talons have been hand-enhanced on this bird. The pommel is a fine 2nd style type having 12 oak leaves around the perimeter. The ferrule is the 2nd type, being exactly like I show on Page 25. The grip of this example is a beautiful darker orange color and the tones are the same throughout. This grip is in totally perfect condition. Now we want to get to the engravings that present themselves on this choice dagger. At the pommel top, taking up almost the complete surface is the engraved family crest of this original owner. The crest is in a shield shape being split into four quadrants. Two of the four quadrants each depict the same scenes and are positioned opposite each other. At the ten o’clock and four o’clock quadrant are depicted what appears to be two powder horns. The backgrounds of these depictions have been nicely lined for a shaded effect. On the other two quadrants which would run from two o’clock to eight o’clock, there is a scene of a prancing stag with a good set of racks. The backgrounds here have a series of random pebbled designs to give them relief. It is quite rare to see a family crest on the top of a pommel. On the reverse of the cross guard is a beautifully engraved five-point crown. Beneath the crown are the letters “v.N-W.”. These initials and crown belong to the aristocratic family of “von Nostitz-Wallwitz”. Unfortunately, there is no first initial in this personalization, so it is difficult to determine which of the von Nostitz-Wallwitz family members owned this dagger. There has been research conducted which accompanies the dagger. The research shows five members of the von Nostitz-Wallwitz family who could have owned this piece. One of them was in the foreign service, so it probably would not be him. Two other younger members were both First Lieutenants and it is doubtful that the dagger belonged to either of these two. The two oldest members of the family “Eckhard von Nostitz-Wallwitz” and “Gustav Adolf von Nostitz-Wallwitz” were the two oldest and likely one of these was the owner of the dagger. Eckhard was a First Lieutenant in 1936 and went on in the war to be associated with a Panzer regiment. He was killed in Russia in 1943. Gustav Adolf, on the other hand, was a First Lieutenant in 1930 and became a Major in 1937. 1937 would most likely be the date that Eickhorn produced this 2nd style variation cross guard, so there is a good chance that when Gustav Adolf von Nostitz-Wallwitz achieved this rank, he purchased the dagger. After this, he became a Lieutenant Colonel with an artillery regiment in 1940 and in 1941, became a Panzer commander, winning the German Cross in gold. In 1942, he was in Russia and was involved with the Stalingrad fiasco. In 1944, he was with Panzer Artillery Regiment 89. At this time, he won the Knight’s Cross and was promoted to General Major. In 1945, he was killed on 31 May. So, there is a better than even chance here that this personalized dagger belonged to a Wehrmacht General and Knight’s Cross winner. It would be up to the next owner to conclusively prove this ownership. This is a very exciting piece, indeed. Getting to the rest of the description, the scabbard is a standard 2nd style Eickhorn example, having good pebbled surfaces. The scabbard shows just hints of frosting in the protected areas around the carrying bands and the throat area. The thicker throat is retained by a center placed screw in the reverse. The blade of this example is as nice as they come. It has a full mirror mint surface with 100% of the original graining. The needlelike tip is in place and this dagger blade easily rates in full mint condition. The reverse ricasso is etched with the 1935-41 squirrel design. The original small brown leather washer is in place protecting this fine blade. This is a grand opportunity to obtain an outstanding dagger. If the original owner was indeed the Knight’s Cross winner, this dagger could be worth far more than its advertised price. If he was not, it is still a fantastic piece which would be the highlight of most collections. It is very rare to find an Army dagger with this aristocratic family Wappen along with the crown and family name. Very rare offering here and guaranteed original dagger.
Mint. $5,995.00

SPO - 013 - 24960 – EARLY ARMY OFFICER - Carl Eickhorn

This Early Army Officer is a beauty, showing very little wear and having not been cleaned since the war. There are frosting signs throughout the dark patination of the silvered fittings. This is very rare to see a dagger in this condition and if you know what you are looking at, it certainly will bring a smile to your face. The cross guard is the first style this firm used, as is the ferrule. These two pieces are the same as can be seen on Page 24 of my Army book, however, the book picture does not have the condition of this piece. The pommel is the second style Eickhorn, being the same as is shown on Pages 26 and 27. This pommel has no hits to the outer rim and there are frosted remains scattered in the recesses of the top area. The side perimeter has beautiful standing oak leaves and also has much frosting remaining. The cross guard eagle has full details to its early head and close checkered breast feathering. The wing spread, wreath and raised swastika are the best. This fitting has an almost completely frosted upper area with remains around the quillon ends and other portions spaced around the depth recesses in the eagle’s wings. Setting all of this off, is a most beautiful, deep orange grip. This grip is more orange than a pumpkin and is quite beautiful, being completely perfect throughout. The scabbard is also the first style, having a steel base. It is totally perfect throughout with outstanding silvered coating. Frosting remains are about 40% throughout this scabbard, while the other areas are nicely toned black. The carrying bands are the convex style, having good detail to each and every oak leaf. The throat is not a thick type, but is retained by the flathead center placed screw in the reverse. A Full Mint scabbard here. The blade is just as nice as the rest of the piece. It retains its needlelike tip and is completely mirror bright throughout both surfaces. It easily has 100% cross graining. This blade is a Full Mint throughout. The reverse ricasso is deeply etched with the squirrel trademark used from 1935-1941. This blade has been protected by the small style brown leather blade buffer, which is in place. A great dagger here for the “type” collector, or just for someone who really wants a nice Eickhorn and does not intend to clean it.
Untouched Mint $995.00(#043008)

SPO - 014 - IMPERIAL MODEL 89 INFANTRY DEGEN WITH BLUE AND GOLD PANELS AND DAMASCUS BLADE - M. NEUMAN HOFLIEFERANT BERLIN.

This beautiful degen is one of those Imperial examples, which tend to leave the viewer with mouth agape at its sight. It is everything that we have come to believe the German craftsman could master having beauty, lots of blued gold, workmanship beyond belief and a sense of art. The hilt is a model 89 type with folding clamshell but it differs from the ordinary in that it has been completely hand worked and it is also of fairly large proportion. If you have a copy of the Angolia Book this hilt design is similar in workmanship to the example shown on page 360. The pommel and backstrap area reflect floral motifs however, they have been so extensively hand worked that the engravings and background pebblings give them more of a look of jewelry, than a weapon. The same beautiful designs and workmanship apply to the D guard area. The folding clamshell, of course, features the Prussian eagle with the ÷WII÷ motif raised out of its breast. This eagle however, has not only been hand worked on its obverse but even the reverse of the eagle reflects the same treatment. It is very rare to see this on a Model 89 Degen. The lustrousness of this hilt cannot be overstated. It appears to have approximately 95% of its original gilded finish. The grip appears to be some form of a hard wood, probably ebony. There are a couple of minor age cracks in the ebony but it is nothing and they are on the reverse area only. This grip reflects a cipher of Wilhelm II applied to the obverse. There is a crown above the initials. The grip is triple-wrapped with beautiful twisted tight wire. The center wire is slightly larger and twisted opposite for effect. But, as nice as this hilt is, it is only a preliminary message to the viewer, concerning the magnificent blade. This blade is a very large proportioned straight example, measuring about 32 inches in length, and having double fullers, which begin at about the center area and run downward. The blade is made of damascus, being a ÷Damaststahl÷ pattern. The damascus pattern is very impressive, and easily remains in a full mint state. The hand-forged damascus pattern is only evident at the halfway mark of the blade where the fullers begin. Prior to this area, the entire first half of the blade is gilded, and also reflects blue panel treatment. The gilding and blue is nearly new like, being in at least 98% condition. The fairly long ricasso area of both sides is further decorated with engraved floral treatments. The entire area is gilded. Below the ricasso, the gilding extends in a unique border pattern, which completely surrounds the blue panels. Raised out in the center area is a matching gilded dedication. It is a frequently seen style citing a gift from one officer to another, in admiration. The dedication is, "Kessler s. /l. Günther". The "s/l" in the center is an abbreviation for the German endearment term "seinem lieben". On the reverse, the identical motif is maintained. The center area here depicts the old German expression, "für Efr! und Pflicht bis Herz und Klinge bricht.". This expression is translated, "For honor and duty until heart and sword break". All I can say is that it will break my heart when someone buys this piece, as its beauty has everything we care about in this hobby. If this were a Third Reich sword, its value would be astronomical. We are lucky in that there were quite a few Imperial Damascus masters, so we do see pieces of this caliber surface occasionally. Although they are still expensive, thankfully they are somewhat in the realm of our pocketbooks. Before I get to the price however, it is also worth mentioning the gilded spine area, also featuring raised out vine designs, has the name of a very famous military uniform retailer, "M. Neuman". After their name is the word "Hoflieferant" which means, "supplier to royalty". This Berlin-based concern produced many of the more ornate and priceless one-of-a-kind weapons made for the royal family. In fact the large Grosser size naval dirk worn by the Kaiser himself, was purchased from this firm by the Kaiserin, which can by seen on page 155 of my Navy Book. Securing this beautiful blade for eternity is a fine straight scabbard, which is finished in blue. The blue is about 98 % and really looks good. This scabbard has the usual flared throat, and is affixed with one carrying ring. There is a second carrying band below this, but the ring has been removed as per the 1906 order. This dates the degen prior to 1906. It would be a fun job to research these two men, but it may be slightly complicated, as the names are not particularly unique. It could be done, however, by matching up the Kesslers and the Günthers in the German Army prior to 1906 and after 1900. I took a look in the 1906 Imperial rank list, and I find two doctors with these names. It is entirely possible that these officers could have been the recipient and the donor of this sword, as it would have been normal for officers of the same branch to flatter each other with such weapons. This is your opportunity to own something really beautiful, and I guarantee you it will bring a smile to your face each time you look at this weapon.
Near Mint (20121) $9995.00

SPO - 015 - 25972C - ARMY OFFICER WITH DOUBLE ETCHED BLADE - NO MAKER

This Army Officer with double etched blade is a textbook piece and is identical to the examples I show in my Army book on Pages 134 and 135. The fittings on this piece are the generic “A” variety. The cross guard is identical to Page 79, upper. This cross guard displays an outstanding open-winged bird which as good detail to his head, breast feathering, wing feathering, wreath and raised out swastika. The silvering is excellent throughout this cross guard. There are minor amounts of darkening in the backgrounds. The matching pommel has a still-crisp edge around the ridge. The standing oak leaves are crisp, having good black back grounding. The ferrule is the traditional type we normally see with the generic “A” pieces. The grip is a very pretty, darker orange color. This grip is in perfect condition and nicely compliments the silvered hilt fittings. The scabbard is a generic type, being identical to Page 120. This scabbard is straight throughout and has perfect silvering. The pebble patterns are still crisp and the carrying bands have excellent detail to the oak leafing. The throat is the narrow type and it is retained by a center-placed, single, headless, flush mount screw. The blade of this piece is absolutely textbook in every way. It is the same as the blade shown on Pages 134 and 135, right, of my Army book. This blade is identical to the Voos marked examples, except that there is no maker on the ricasso. The obverse shows an outstanding arabesque floral design. These designs are beautifully raised out of the metal and are enhanced by the frosted 100% backgrounds. This dagger etch is the type that does not have the droplets at the end of the etch. The center of the etch features an art-deco, open winged eagle, which has wings cut at 45 degrees at the end. The bird clutches a plain style wreath with raised out mobile swastika. To the right and left of the swastika is a set of oak leaf sprigs with acorns. The identical etch is on the reverse, except there is no center panel. This etch also is fabulous, having 100% frosted finish really highlighting the raised out parts. The rest of the blade in the plain areas sports outstanding mirror nickel plated finish. This blade is in choice mint condition. These double etched Army blades have always been in demand and the no maker type is what you want to buy, if you don’t want to lay out the money for a Voos piece. A very fine, guaranteed original here, which will look excellent in any collection. A good investment piece! Mint Minus. $3,695.00

This beautiful saber has the identical hilt as is designated as an honor piece illustrated in Johnson Volume I, page 146 left. The all brass hilt consists of a finely detailed leopard head cat with oak leaf backstrap and "P" guard. The cat is fitted with blood red faceted eyes. He has fine hand done detail throughout his whiskers, chin, and the jowl areas. The handwork is beautifully rendered throughout this brass. The backstrap consists of raised out oak leaves with a single leaf flowing into the side tabs. The "D" guard also features raised out oak leaves and there is handwork evident on the checkering of the acorns accompanying these leaves. The ferrule is one of the straight-edged-border types frequently seen on E. Pack pieces. You can see an identical ferrule on page 113 of the Angolia Book. I like this particular ferrule and I think other producer's did also, as it is seen on higher quality examples occasionally. The crossguard consists of an open-winged, art deco style eagle. The eagle on this piece looks to the viewer's left. It is highly detailed featuring lots of hand accenting. It faces opposite from both the Herder pieces shown in Angolia on page 86, lower and the Johnson piece on page 146. The gilding throughout this brass hilt appears to be approximately 90%. The hilt gilding, however, is nice and even, and is very pleasing. The grip is composed of black celluloid over wood. It is in perfect condition and it is wrapped in an unusual attractive style. It features two plain wires, and in the center, is springy aluminum wire. Really looks good and is the same as the wrap shown on Johnson page 146 left. This hilt has a deluxe quality about it, which tends to hint of the delight to come when the blade is withdrawn. This blade measures 31 ½-inches in length and is completely pristine, featuring highest quality nickel-plated surfaces. The blade features the unique Richard Herder etch pattern which almost looks like spaghetti to me. It is immediately recognizable, as it is a series of twisted rounded cording joined together and raised out. The pattern may be seen on page 46 of Johnson Volume I, as well as on page 86, of the Angolia Sword Book. The pattern is also shown on page 43 of Angolia, four down from the top. The obverse blade features a centered panel between the spaghetti etch. This panel has beautiful frosted backgrounds being 100%. Raised out of the panel, is the nickel-plated facsimile signature of the blade's owner. Other than the first name which appears to be "Franz", the last name I am unable to decipher. The signature appears to be done in the popular Sütterlin script which was used during the time. Perhaps this signature could be translated by someone more knowledgeable, and thus, a research project could be instituted on this outstanding example. The reverse blade is also a fantastic thing. It has the same spaghetti etch with a panel in the center featuring frosted backgrounds. This panel depicts a highly stylized, open-winged eagle. The eagle does not clutch a wreathed swastika but rather the swastika is positioned where the bird's talons normally would be. This makes for an outstanding look. You may see this detail on page 43 of Angolia. This eagle really is exciting when you first pull out the blade, as most collectors have never seen this style bird before. This is really a stimulating blade and definitely would be the highlight of a sword collector's passion. The accompanying scabbard is nice and straight and has good original black paint. There is quite a bit of crazing and spidering in the paint surfaces, but overall, it still looks good, and with a little cleaning up should easily rate at excellent plus to near mint. A great sword which deserves to be researched and then displayed on a cradle with the results! This is your chance to really obtain a fine, fine piece for your collection. Not cheap, but quality Third Reich swords of this caliber and importance are rarely offered today. Mint Minus (20717) $7,495.00

SPO - 059 - 22526 – DELUXE FIRE OFFICIAL’S DIRK WITH DEDICATION – Carl Eickhorn

This deluxe addition of the Fire Official’s dirk is the Model Number 527. The Carl Eickhorn firm had a large variety of dirks available to fire officials, and some of these more expensive ones are real show stoppers. This example is a beauty. It is the same as the piece which Tom Johnson and I show in our Imperial Book on page 225. The fittings throughout this piece are heavily silver plated, and are quite elaborately decorated. The pommel is in the shape of a doorknob, and it has decorative beading centered around two vaulted ball-like structures in the center of each round pommel. The tang goes through the top of the pommel and it is peened over, making these pieces non-take down. The pedestal of this pommel has floral like leaves which rise upward. The ferrule has twin beaded decorative lines. The crossguard has a center block which features a hook and ladder raised out on the obverse, and a rayed diamond shape on the reverse. The quillon arms flare outward in the shape of flames. The silvering throughout these fittings is nicely patinated, with the dark areas highlighting the recessed portions that still have frosted surfaces. Very beautiful indeed! The grip of this piece appears to be black animal horn. The horn is bulbous in the center, and has deeply slanted ribs numbering ten all of which swirl from the left to the right. This horn is in perfect condition having a fine black sheen to its surfaces. The ribs are wrapped with delicate twisted silver wire. A very beautiful hilt here! This dirk measures approximately 23 ½-inches overall. The long scabbard features a black leather shell. The leather is still in good condition and is sewn up the rear. It is decorated with twin lines which run along the edges of both sides. The scabbard mounts are the silvered type that have twin line decoration, but otherwise, are plain. The upper mount is fitted with two carrying rings having twin line decoration opposite the eyelet area. The surfaces of these fittings are silvered to match the hilt fittings. These mounts are retained with staples in the usual manner. The obverse upper mount has a two-line dedication which is professionally engraved between the two rings. The engraving is, “Gewidmet von den Festjungfrauen / Rüsselsheim, den 21 Juni 1914”. This would translate to, “Presented by the Young Women from the Festival at Rüsselsheim on 21 June 1934”. It is interesting to note that the identical dedication is engraved into the lower fitting, however, it is on the reverse side instead of the obverse side. It appears as though the young women, who obviously collected donations for this Fire Official’s prize, wanted to make sure that they were recognized for their generosity! This dagger would have probably been given either as an award, or possibly to a fire chief who was retiring. The impressive double edged blade is 17-inches in length. It has etchings on both sides. The blade is nickel-plated and is still in mint condition. The obverse side features two panels of floral designs with a center depiction of hooks, ladders, hoses and a fire extinguisher. The reverse side has the same floral designs with the center depiction showing ladders, hoses, and a fireman’s helmet. These designs are beautifully highlighted with 100% frosted backgrounds. A most impressive blade here. The reverse is stamped with the back-to-back squirrel logo and the initials, “C.E.”, beneath the trademark. This was the logo used by Carl Eickhorn up to the end of World War I in 1918. The blade has been protected by an in-place, red felt buffer. An extraordinary Fireman’s Dirk here and a great piece for those who love beautiful things.
Near Mint $2,795.00

SPO - 061 - 24481 – IMPERIAL CASED KAISER TABLE AWARD

The case of this beautiful Kaiser award is as impressve as the prize itself. This case measures about 8 ½-inches by 9 ½-inches and is about 2-inches in depth. It has rounded corners, and is covered in a rich, deep brown-colored leather that appears to be a reptilian skin. The texture of it appears to be scales rather than the grain we see with standard animals. The corners of the case are all curved. There are two brass hook and lock devices which keep the case closed. They are mounted on the left and right of the obverse edges. Centered in the top face of the case, is a Kaiser cipher. The cipher is embossed in gold and features a highly detailed Imperial German crown. All of the crown’s details can be seen in the embossing, including the domed panels, which depict alternating crosses and Prussian eagles. The top of the crown has open finials which retain an orb with cross at the top. A wonderful rendering here which can not be overstated. Below the crown, is an extremely fancy “W” which has he Roman numeral, “II” in the center. This cipher embossed into the leather, indicates that this prize is a personal gift from Kaiser Wilhelm himself. The leather covering is still in choice condition, showing very little usage or age. Very beautiful indeed! When the lid is opened, the inner upper section is covered with padded blue silk. The impression of the prize resting inside, has been forever silhouetted into this inner lid. The surface area of the inside box has been covered in matching regal blue purple velvet. The velvet features a raised-out center, which has been sculpted to accept the prize device. The prize consists of a gilded round medallion having a diameter of approximately 6 ½-inches. The gilding is completely perfect around the border areas of this disk. At the top, is a heraldic angel having attractively done face, wings, and halo style backing. The inner area of this ringed decoration features a purple velvet. The inside of the prize is a large, blue medallion which measures 4-inches in diameter. The medallion features the raised-out head of Kaiser Wilhelm, complete with mustache having upturned ends. The Kaiser is shown from the side. Around the perimeter of the medallion is, “WILHELM. II. IMPr. REX.”. This medallion is extremely striking and beautiful. I don’t know what the purpose of the award would have been, but I’m sure that the Kaiser limited the amount of awards given out in this extreme caliber. This was an expensive item, even when new! Taking the award out of the case, is interesting to note, that the same cipher embossing which appears on the leather case top, has been engraved into the reverse. It features a detailed Imperial crown over the cipher, “W”, over the Roman numeral, “II”. This is definitely an award given by the Kaiser himself. It would be very interesting to learn the purpose of this award. Unfortunately, I do not know, but I do know that whoever received it must have done something that the Kaiser really liked. This is a great opportunity to acquire a stand out piece to really show off your Imperial collection or highlight your Imperial swords. Highest quality item here. Very, very elegant and tasteful.
Near Mint $2,495.00

SPO - 062 - 15338 – 18TH CENTURY GERMAN HUNTING CUTLASS WITH IVORY GRIP AND SKINNER

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 $4,995.00

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