WITTMANN MILITARIA PO Box 350 - 279 West Main Street - Moorestown, NJ 08057 856-866-8733(ph) / 856-235-4954 (fax)

Home Inventory Listing Contact us Order

Site Search by PicoSearch. Help

SPO - 068 - 26348 – EARLY ARMY OFFICER WITH ARTIFICIAL DAMASCUS BLADE – CARL EICKHORN

This early Carl Eickhorn Army Officer is quite impressive and appears to have not been cleaned in many years. The hilt fittings and scabbard have developed a fine, dark patination throughout the silvered areas. This dagger is nearly identical to the example I show in my Army book on Pages 170 and 171. The pommel is the second style used by Eickhorn. It shows a little bit of carrying usage around the rim area and also some on the top surfaces, but overall, this pommel is still in excellent condition. It has outstanding standing oak leaves which run around the perimeter. There are twelve of them, and each one has fine veining and is separated by a small acorn. The cross guard is the first style used by this firm. It is identical to the one shown on Page 70. This cross guard features an open-winged eagle which has much more detail than the second style used a couple of years later. This bird has little wear to its surfaces, having striking detail to the eye, beak, cross-checkered breast feathering, wing feathering, talons, wreath detail and raised swastika. A most impressive bird here. The reverse and upper areas are also in excellent shape, having full silvering. The ferrule is the same as the book piece. This ferrule shows overlapping oak leaves with acorns that run its length. What really sets this hilt off, though, is the very dark toned orange grip. The upper portion of this grip is so dark, it is almost a deep red color. The tone of the reverse is slightly lighter, but still very dark. There has been a troddel strapped around the lower grip of this piece, certainly since the war, if not before it. This troddel has covered the lower area of the grip. This covered section is actually an egg-yolk yellow color which really contrasts with the dark pumpkin orange. A great look here, and certainly proof that these grips were not made in an orange color, but were actually issued in yellow. As most collectors know, it was light that turned the celluloid material into different color tones. This troddel is the type with gray silk strapping. The strapping has a nice texture pattern to it. The slide, stem and acorn cap are all of a yellow silk material. According to the Third Reich Army charts, this color scheme would have been worn by the Eleventh Regiment of the Artillery. On the other hand, though, it is impossible to say whether this troddel was worn with this dagger during the period. It would seem unlikely, as although some NCOs wore daggers, I do not believe that there would have been an enlisted man status who would have been allowed to wear such a fine piece. Chances are, the troddel was put onto the dagger by the returning Veteran where it laid in place all of these years. Whatever the case, this all really talks to you. The grip is in perfect condition except for a tiny sliver which is broken from one of the rib separator sections, but it is nothing and easily is concealed by the troddel. The scabbard of this example is an outstanding second style. This scabbard toning exactly matches that of the hilt fittings. The silvering is perfect throughout and even has a little bit of frosting noticeable around the carrying bands and the throat area. The bands are exceptional, having very fine overlapping oak leaves and acorn mixture. The throat is the thicker type and it is retained by one center-placed, flatter head screw in the reverse. This scabbard is in full mint condition. The blade of this example is a surprise when it comes out of the scabbard. At first glance, it has the look of a “band” Damascus. After further study, though, the blade is actually an artificial Damascus created through the use of acid to simulate the more expensive hand-forged Damascus. The pattern is, in fact, a “band” type and it has the look of pulling a piece of Turkish taffy apart. The blade is in mint condition throughout its length except for the very tip. It appears that the tip may have been stuck into a tree, as it has signs of a couple of minor bends. (Unfortunately, previous veterans owners did not realize the importance to collectors of a blade like this and, alas, things do happen). The reverse of the blade is very similar to the reverse ricasso shown on Page 71. The difference, however, is that the logo etched on the ricasso is the 1935-41 squirrel pattern. This seated squirrel holds a sword pointing downward. The firm’s name appears below the squirrel, “Eickhorn”. The “i” in the name is actually made with the lower portion of the sword blade. Above the rodent is the slogan used by the Eickhorn firm “original”. As most collectors know, the word “original” is the same in German and means the same. This blade is protected by a small style, in-place brown leather washer. A great dagger here for the advanced collector or for someone wishing to add an exciting piece to an Army “type” collection. This is an outstanding, original example. Near Mint. $6,500.00(#062408)

SPO - 069 - 17738 – TRANSITIONAL SECOND MODEL NAVAL WITH DAMASCUS BLADE, IVORY GRIP AND HANGING STRAPS

This exceptional 2nd Model Naval dagger actually began its life as a 1929 pattern. When it was originally issued, the dagger would have had a ball top pommel and as it has now, a scabbard with “figure 8” knotted bands. The dagger in its original state looked very much like the example I show on Page 205 of my Naval book. In 1938 however, the pommel was changed to the new eagle and swastika type. This changeover pommel is identical to the one I show in my Naval book on Page 229, left. These changeover pommels have a deeper recess in the wings and a nicer curvature outward than the standard pommels used by the blade companies after this date. The eagle head is also exceptionally well done, having terrific detail to the beak, eye and breast feathering. This bird has a rather smug look on his face and his beak is even longer than most that we see. The vaulted out wreath encloses a fine mobile swastika which is retained in his talons. The brass base to this pommel is high quality and appears to exactly match that of the dagger’s cross guard. This cross guard is an earlier style, being slightly thinner than the later used Third Reich types. It has good detail, though, to the fouled anchors and the acanthus leaves that decorate the outward cross guards. The end buttons have nice line engravings and are fitted with small nipples on the end. The blade release button is a more squared off type and most likely was a period replacement. It, nevertheless, is finely machined and works well. The grip itself is a beautiful genuine hand-carved ivory example. This ivory has toned very nicely, having golden hues throughout its surfaces and there is also some pleasing graining throughout. I don’t see any cracks in the grip and there are no chips, either. The ivory grip is tightly wrapped with twisted brass wire. There is visible age residue which has been trapped in the recesses by the wire. The original portepee still decorates this piece. This knot is a silver bullion type. The bullion has toned to a very dark color, giving it a gold look. The knot has frayed in several places and it is interesting to note that there are some repairs made by the use of winding string around the fraying areas in order to save the knot from breaking. During the 1930s, few of these naval officers had the money it took to just replace a bullion knot like this, so, often they were repaired accordingly. This knot shows quite a bit of wear, age and just plain usage, but I think it gives much character to the piece and should be left in place. The knot is in the Naval “reef” tie. The scabbard, as stated above, is a 1929 type having “figure 8” knot bands on the obverse and plain rope decoration on the reverse. The scabbard is a lightning bolt design and the brass nicely matches that of the hilt fittings. This piece does not look to have been cleaned in many years, if ever. The stampings, though, are still quite deep, reflecting good palmettes around the bands, and at the bottom, having the upward pointing lightning bolts, round ermine feet and the acanthus leaves at the lower. There are a couple of very minor carrying signs, but no denting, per se. The eyelets attached to the “figure 8” are hand decorated to resemble rope. The throat is retained by two brass side screws. Attached to the dagger is an outstanding early set of Naval hanging straps. These straps are the style with early brass hardware and the lion mask buckles have fine detail to their faces. These straps are the black moiré style having a ribbed surface. The reverse is a high-pile, blue-black velvet. There is some minor wear noticeable on the reverse of the upper strap (which carried most of the weight). The lower strap has little wear, but it is obvious that this pair have always been together. The snap clips at the top and bottom are matching brass. It is interesting to note that the two upper snap clips are both Naval Property stamped. This consists of a stick bird over the capital letter “M” standing, of course, for “Marine”. This set of straps is very desirable and most likely are original to this piece. Pulling the blade out, the viewer is treated to a very nice look. This blade is a genuine Damascus and it is forged in the “maidenhair” pattern. It has the usual length ricasso with fine double fullers. The tip remains needlelike. The Damascus pattern is perfect throughout this blade and other than just normal age, there are no flaws whatsoever. The blade lock also works well in unison with the scabbard throat. This blade is protected by an in-place green velvet buffer. This buffer shows some age but, for the most part, it is still all there. I took a look at the tang of this example and, unfortunately, there are no markings. Also, there are no markings on the ricasso. This was not unusual, though, as often these blades were custom ordered through local Damascus smiths and sold through distributors or retail Naval uniform trapping stores. The harbor of Kiel had several of these places where pieces of this caliber could be purchased. A very nice Naval here, having all of the bells and whistles, albeit they show some overall age, but it is all there. This is your chance to acquire a really nice piece. Excellent Plus. $7,995.00

SPO - 071 - UNIQUE NUREMBERG 1929 BADGE OF HONOR WITH HITLER DEDICATION TO JULIUS STREICHER

This non-portable award originally was issued in a leatherette case with velvet recessed bottom. The case is currently missing from this piece. The award is a "900" marked silver example. It is identical to the piece which is shown in the Forman III edition page 251, bottom. The non-portable Badge of Honor award was given to high ranking political and NSDAP leaders. The 1929 Nuremberg rallies were very important to Hitler. So much so, the pin which participants wore during this rally continued to be worn throughout the Third Reich period. The rallies prior to 1929 were not well attended, and this was the first time some one hundred thousand people took part. The rally included a patriotic ceremony for the dead of World War I and was also know for its number of violent clashes with Communists. It was the rally when German industrialists also realized that Hitler was a political factor to contend with and started donating money to the NSDAP. For these reasons, the 1929 rally was very important to Hitler's cause. This beautiful award measures approximately 3 ½-inches in length and 1 ½-inches in width. It is a shield shape. At the top of the award are the distinctive medieval castle structures which act as the logo for the city of Nuremberg. Below these, the name of the city is printed in large letters, "NÜRNBERG". Below this, a Stahlhelm style helmet is vaulted outward with a Prussian style eagle on the top. The bird grasps a wreathed swastika in its talons. Next to the bird are the dates, "1914", and, "1919 NSDAP". Below the helmet are the raised out purpose of the award, "Partei / Tag / 1929". The reverse of the award is stamped by the maker, "F. Hoffstätter / Bonn". Beneath this maker stamping is the hallmark of, "800", the silver content. But the best part of the award is yet to come! The reverse of the award has outstanding custom engraving which is almost enough to give the true collector the shivers of thrill. It is engraved, "Herrn / Stadtrat u. M.d.L. / Julius Streicher / in Würdigung / der Verdienste / um Nürnberg / herzlichst". The engraving is absolutely fantastic, done in the gothic manner, and following the width format of the badge borders. Beneath the professional engraving is the facsimile signature of, "Adolf Hitler". Roughly translated this inscription means, "To city leader Julius Streicher, in appreciation for heartfelt service in Nuremberg, Adolf Hitler". The initials, "Md. L." are an abbreviation of "Mitglied des Landtages," which means "Member of Parliament." Streicher was a member of the Bavarian Parliament from 1924 to 1932. (Info supplied by Bernd Thorborg). Most collectors may know that Streicher was directly responsible for bringing Hitler and the NSDAP to Nuremberg for their rallies. It was the perfect city for such occasions due to its medieval architecture, narrow streets and the fact that many railroads converged on Nuremberg from throughout Germany. Streicher also participated in the original 1923 Putch, standing next to Hitler during the famous march. Hitler, known for his unwavering loyalty throughout his life, never gave up on Streicher despite the repulsiveness of the man. Streicher was a publisher of a pornographic and anti-Semitic newspaper which Hitler read religiously, despite the fact that Streicher was universally hated by members of the Party. Streicher was a man who wanted to settle affairs first with violence, often taking pleasure in beating people in the presence of witnesses. He was a thoroughly obnoxious sadist who's sexual appetite bordered on the psychopathic. He once charged that Hermann Goring's daughter, Edda, was conceived by artificial insemination! Although, Hitler was forced to dismiss Streicher from Party posts, he never removed his title as Gauleiter and was loyal to him to the end. This Nuremberg Badge of Honor is a great example of how Hitler felt about Streicher. It is extremely rare to find any objects which are personally dedicated by the Führer. This item is absolutely guaranteed to be authentic and is one of the most important artifacts I have turned up in years! If I am able to find an appropriate case for this badge I will include it with its sale. A great opportunity for an advanced collector to acquire something really great for his collection! (Special thanks to Bernd Thorborg for his contribution to this description.)
Excellent Plus, Plus (22368) $9,995.00

SPO - 072 - 17196 – MINER’S BLUE AND GILD DRESS HAMMER WITH DEDICATION – J.A. Henckel

This Miner’s dress hammer was most likely presented to a coal miner upon his retirement, or possibly an anniversary year. The hammer has a head which measures approximately six and one-quarter inches across. This head is a steel base, which has been nickel plated, and then gilded. The one side of the hammer has a standard flat end snout, and the opposite end comes to a point, which would have been used for picking into stone. Each of these extending arms has been decorated with double rows of gilt and blue oak leafing. This oak leafing is quite beautiful, featuring sporadic acorns. The leaves have all been enhanced with hand-done veining. The surfaces have had a pebbling applied to bring about relief. The gold is highlighted by beautiful blue lined backgrounds and marked lines of gilt. Nice work here! The flat end of the hammer is decorated with a raised out, “E”. The letter has a blued background and the border around it has little decorative circles. These are the kind of decorations we often see applied to areas of carrying bands, to cover casting flaws. The center block of the hammer is almost square, but is slightly thinner on the bottom area. The obverse center block is decorated with oak leaves and acorns, which are bordered by the little circular effects. The center of this block has a set of crossed miners’ hammers. The slogan for miners appears on either side of the hammers “Glück Auf!” This motto means “Good Luck” which seems to be a properly applied motto for an organization having the risk of coal miners. The other side of the center block is done in the same manner with blued backgrounds, gilded border lines and more of the little circles. It has a raised out four line expression or dedication which in German is “WO KUOLEN LIFGET/UN EKEL’L WASST/DO WASST OK LÜ/DE DCBI BASST”. I do not know what this dedication means, but it may be a slogan which applies to mining organizations. It is very interesting to note that, below the hammering end of this device, on the side of the center block, is the logo of the J.A. Henckel firm, being the twins. The twins logo is in blue, and the area around it, is gilded. This hammer shows a little bit of wear and some minor age here and there, but, overall, it is still all there, and is a great looking artifact. The handle itself is made out of a type of hardwood. It is a brown color and appears to be teak or some other type of hard wood. This is a great item to accent a beautiful Miner’s Sword, or something to start a collection around. A beautiful, one-of-a-kind item. Excellent Plus Plus $2,495.00

SPO - 073 - 27459 - NPEA CHAINED LEADER - CARL EICKHORN

This NPEA chain leader by Carl Eickhorn is one of the most desirable of all Nazi produced daggers. This is not because the dagger is beautiful, it is because it is in fantastic condition and is ultra rare. NPEA daggers were certainly never known for their beauty, as olive drab is hardly the color that someone would paint a first class corvette. But, in the instance of this dagger, this is the combination that you have. This dagger is identical to the example I show in the Johnson’s Volume VI book on Page 139. This dagger has absolute mint conditioned nickel plated cross guards and tang nut. The nickel plating across these mounts is in newlike, factory bright condition. The tang nut is also in this condition. The grip is a thinner style RZM type, having high-ridge construction in the center. This grip appears to be a mahogany wood having a slight reddish tinge. The graining is quite attractive, running from north to south. This grip is in complete, perfect condition, showing no usage whatsoever. It fits the cross guards fairly nicely but with later style daggers, we do see some gapping and, unfortunately, this one has it, but nothing excessive. The grip eagle is a fine mint conditioned aluminum example. This bird is the “high-necked” style eagle having complete full detail to his eyes, beak, breast, wing feathering, talons, wreath and raised swastika. The bird is perfectly set in at the center apex of the grip just below the center line. Other than this eagle, there is no other symbols in this grip. As we all know, the NPEA had no runes button assigned to it, so there was never anything in the top grip. The scabbard shell of this example is completely straight. The olive drab NPEA paint is 100%. It has some attic crazing in the surfaces, but just enough where you can see that it is the real deal. The Eickhorn NPEA paint is a slightly more yellowy shade than that of the Burgsmüller styles. If you compare the two next to each other, it is quite obvious that just looking at these daggers singularly (which we are lucky to see one, let alone two) the difference would be easily picked up. This fine scabbard shell has the three nickel plated steel base mounts. These mounts, like the cross guards, are factory bright and newlike throughout. This includes the upper mount, the center mount and the lower mount. There is one minor little ding at the bottom ball, but it is nothing and does not show at all from straight on. The center ramps for the Eickhorn version NPEA Leader is slightly narrower than that of the Burgsmüller. It has fine, crisp edges and is retained by a screw in one edge. This center ramp is the identical ramp that Eickhorn also used for their NSKK Officer production. The eyelet on the opposite side of the ramp is the identical size as the eyelet in the top mount. The top mount also has the thicker style throat that we often associate with the Eickhorn later product. These mounts are retained by dome head, steel based screws and all of the screws are in position and appear unturned. Attached to the two eyelets is a fine, all-nickel, unmarked Luftwaffe style chain. This chain has 5 ringlets at the top and 8 ringlets at the bottom. The standard tabs connect the two chains to the scabbard eyelets and the unmarked snap clip. Sometimes, we will see aluminum Luftwaffe chains attached to Eickhorn NPEA Leaders also. For this vintage dagger, which has the 1935-41 trademark, it is normally a standard to see the early Luftwaffe chain. This chain and clip assembly perfectly matches the fittings throughout the dagger. The blade of this example is such a beautiful sight it could bring tears to the knowing collector’s eyes. This blade is absolute mirror bright, stone mint. It has 100% of the original cross graining and just could not be any nicer. The NPEA motto “Mehr sein als scheinen” means “Be more than you appear to be.” This etching has 100% of the original darkening in the backgrounds and, as we see on Eickhorn blades, the “s” letters in the words “sein” and “scheinen” are the gothic style. If you are not familiar with these gothic “s” letters, you can see them in Johnson’s Volume V, Page 139. The reverse of the blade, as mentioned above, is etched with the 1935-41 squirrel trademark. The trademark has 100% of the darkening and has the firm’s name “Eickhorn Solingen” beneath the animal. The blade shoulders perfectly meet the lower cross guard contours. This is a magnificent dagger for the advanced collector. I doubt that there is a better Eickhorn NPEA Chained Leader in existence.
Mint. $11,995.00

SPO - 075 - 27454 - DIPLOMATIC CORPS DAGGER - ALCOSO

This Alcoso Diplomatic dagger is textbook all the way. It has excellent silvering throughout the hilt fittings. The cover plate at the left side has just a little bit of age at the upper portion but, other than this, the silvering is perfect throughout the pommel, ferrule, cross guard and scabbard. The pommel features the eagle head looking to the left. This head has excellent detail to the squared beak, the brow, the eye and the feathering at the lower portion. The pommel edges have the traditional hand-cut lines which go downward in shape of the border and come to a point at the center, about half-way down the back strap. The ferrule has the usual two hand-cut lines for decoration. The cross guard is a real beauty, having the large style wreathed swastika that we see on the Diplomatic versions of these Alcoso daggers. The cross guard bird has outstanding detail, looking to the viewer’s right. The feathering is excellent throughout as is the details to the talons, head, wreath and raised swastika. These Diplo cross guards are done much better than the Government Official counterpart. The grip plates are the traditional celluloid slabs which are made to resemble mother of pearl. These plates have nicely yellowed and have attractive marbling in the designs. They are in perfect condition and have been installed by a master who beautifully rounded the edges where they meet the borders of the back strap and cover plate. The spanner on top is the style which is aluminum but it still has most of the silvering intact across its surfaces. The holes have been opened up a couple of times, but there are no bad scars or problems. I checked the numbers inside and they are “88". This number is stamped on the edge of the spanner, the back strap, the side plate, the wood of the grip, the upper cross guard around the tang clearance hole and the tang. Normally, scabbards were never stamped. The scabbard is a good, straight example showing some minor carrying signs, but there are no dings or problems. The pebble pattern is still quite crisp throughout and the edges have all of their silvering with none of the usual freckling. The bands are the overlapping oak leaf and acorn mixed type and they travel forward toward the eyelets. The eyelets are the special Alcoso type that have the flared openings and triple serrated surfaces. The silvering is still mostly intact, even on the carrying rings. You can see the detail to these Alcoso scabbards, as I show a closeup on Page 299 of my Navy book. An identical scabbard to this example can be seen on Page 299 of my Naval book. I show good close ups of the oak leaf and acorn mix with the serrated eyelets. The throat of this example, like the book piece, is retained by two flatter head side screws. These screws have a very small bore which is typical of the screws used by Alcoso. The blade of this example is still bright and has most of its original cross graining. This blade easily grades in near full mint condition. The reverse ricasso has the 1941 style sideways etched trademark. It features the scales with the letters “ACS” interspersed. To the right of the scales, the firm’s name is script-written “Alcoso” and it is positioned over a block-lettered “Solingen”. On this type of etching, the firm’s name often looks like it is written with an “a” letter ending, but it is actually an “o” having an extension used to swirl a flourish beneath the name, giving it the look of the letter “a”. The blue leather washer is in place protecting this example. This is a good, textbook Diplomatic dagger having excellent condition and good collectibility. These daggers are quite rare, and this one is priced reasonably.
Excellent Plus. $9,995.00

SPO - 076 - 25440 - 2ND MODEL LUFTWAFFE W/ IVORY GRIP AND DOUBLE-ETCH BLADE

This Second Model Luftwaffe is the classic Voos, with Ivory Grip and Double-Etched Blade. These daggers are an absolute “must”, for any advanced collector, or for those who just want to have something beautiful to look at, and always have a steady rising investment. These daggers, I believe, are the highlight of any interesting collection. This example is just as beautiful, if not more so, than the piece I show in color, in my Luftwaffe book, on page 167. The hilt fittings are the generic variety. They have received a heavy silver plating, and therefore, are a near black color, being brighter on the high points. The pommel is the same as page 167, except the silver plating has given it much more depth. The crossguard is also identical, having the same black recesses. The pommel has the pebbled background style leafing, and both swastikas are nicely raised out. The crossguard displays the bird flying to the viewer’s left. The top of his wings are cantilevered over, slightly. This bird shows no wear, and has great detail to his beak, brow, eye, breast feathering, talons, wing feathering, and clutched swastika. The reverse of the bird has the large pebble pattern design in the panel. It is identical to the example shown on page 166, by Tiger. The pommel has all of the silvering still intact, whereas there is one minor flake to the lower quillon arm, beneath the bird depiction. This flake does not show at all while viewing the upper areas. This crossguard is the style having the cast-in-oak leaves at the upper quillon arms. These oak leaf and acorn designs are the same as is shown on page 149, center. The ferrule is also the silver-plated version, exactly matching the other hilt mounts. Setting the richly patinated fittings off, is an outstanding ivory grip. This ivory has turned a golden color throughout, having beautiful grains running through every millimeter of this grip surface. There are attractive cracks, which run down both edges. It is a fantastic piece of ivory, being more beautiful, than page 167. There are no chips anywhere in this ivory, and it is tightly wrapped with the original “springy” grip wire. An outstanding, beautiful hilt here! The scabbard is a very choice airplane gray-style, having 100% coating. This full mint scabbard could not be any nicer. It has crisp pebbling to all of the panels, and the bands are also totally perfect. These bands are the generic type. The throat is an unplated style, and it is thin, being retained by two flush-mount side screws. A beautiful scabbard here, which is accompanied with a great set of hanging straps. These hangers have perfect blue/purple brocade fronts, and the velvet backs show no wear whatsoever. These straps are equipped with the deluxe fittings, having the raised-out oak leafing to the snap clip, the rectangular buckles, the slides, and also to the push-up style, oak leafed snap clips. The straps are retained by fold-over metal tabs, which are riveted to the brocade. These tabs are both, “DLGM” marked, as well as having stamped-in oak leaf and acorn decoration. There is also some golden hues to the metal parts throughout these hangers, which most likely is caused by old lacquer coating. Beautiful straps here, matching a beautiful dagger. These straps are the same as is shown, second from the top, on page 329. But the best part of these Voos daggers has to be the blade. This example is, in a word, “magnificent”. The nickel plating is 100% throughout, to include even the tip area. The tip also remains needle-like. This nickel plating is double etched, with both sides having 100% frosted background. This frosting really sets off the raised-out, floral arabesque, patterns. Just beautiful! The center obverse area features a Luftwaffe eagle, flying to the right, clutching a mobile swastika. Beneath each wing, is a sprig of laurel leaves. The reverse is all arabesque floral design, and the blade etch is the style which ends with no dots. This blade etch appears on Pages 236 and 237. The Voos blade typically has short shoulders below the tang. This example does also but, fortunately there is no slippage of the grip, something we frequently see on these ivory gripped examples. The reverse ricasso is etched with the familiar trademark. It consists of an oval, which inside, has the snake-around-stump logo. The snake is flicking his tongue. Around the inside of the oval perimeter is the firm’s name and location block-lettered, “Emil Voos Solingen”. The original pebbled brown leather washer is in place. This is a full mint example of investment quality condition. One of the best Voos’ I have handled over the years. Mint. $11,995.00

SPO - 077 - 25585 - SPECIAL GILD BRASS PEENED LINK HANGING STRAPS OF UNKNOWN ORIGIN

SPO - 078 - 27157C – PERSONALIZED ARMY WITH DEDICATION – ROBERT KLASS

The cross guard of this example shows much hand-enhancing. It is the same as the one pictured at the lower on Page 47. It is obvious to me that the same in-house artist did both of these eagles. The feathering throughout the open wings has been hand-cut and the breast feathering and legs of the bird have had very close work performed for the cross sectioning of these parts. The head has a fine eye and beak design and the wreath itself also has hand done engravings. It nicely accents the raised out mobile swastika which has lots of black patination behind it. It is always fun to examine these highly embellished cross guards. It is rare to see one with this much hand work. Obviously, the chisler knew it was going to have a dedication also so he did his best to add his expert influence. The reverse of the cross guard has the three-line dedication all in capital letters “ZUR BEFÖRDERUNG/Z. LEUTNANT/GEW.V. 2. ZUG”. This dedication would translate to “A GIFT FROM THE 2ND PLATOON FOR YOUR PROMOTION TO LIEUTENANT”. Obviously, the officer “RP” was promoted and received the dagger from his underlings, who must have been proud of him. The ferrule is identical to the same shown on Page 47. All of these mounts have fine black background patinations. The grip is a deep egg-yolk yellow color. It is in perfect condition throughout and is evenly toned. The scabbard is a typical Robert Klass example. It has all of its silvering and nicely matches the patination of the hilt fittings. The pebble pattern is crisp and the oak leaves of the carrying bands are nicely done. These oak leaves also have hand-enhancing, and as is the usual for this in-house engraver, the asterisk design has been added to the end portion of both of these bands. This design can be seen in my Army book on Page 119. The thicker style throat of this example is retained by two flatter head side screws. The blade of this example is a mirror bright, nickel plated type. It has all of the mirror plating on the obverse and on the reverse, the plating is just beginning to thin a little on the center blade segment. It is minor, though, and if the blade is kept out of the dagger from now on, it should not get any worse. Other than this minor thinning, the blade remains in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the kissing cranes trademark. Beneath this is the firm’s name “Robt Klass/Solingen”. The small leather blade buffer is in place. A very fine example here, and difficult to find Army daggers with not only a dedication, but the recipient’s initials on the pommel also.
Excellent Plus Plus. $1,495.00

SPO - 079 - 27178- PERSONALIZED ARMY OFFICER WITH DEDICATION – CARL EICKHORN

This Army Officer dagger is a fine Eickhorn example, having lots of desirable extras. The dagger itself is a 2nd style Eickhorn, having hilt fittings identical to the ones I show on Pages 25 and 26 of my Army book. These fittings are the 2nd style used by Eickhorn. The pommel features the 12 standing oak leaves which run around the perimeter. There is excellent dark background giving relief to these leaves. The rim of the pommel is in perfect condition and the upper portion of the pommel is a great sight, as all of the silvering is there and, in addition, there is a beautifully rendered monogram which was done professionally. This monogram portrays the initials “LK” intertwined. The initials are both double lined and the “K” letter has shading in the center areas which is usually an indication that the “K” letter stood for the original owner’s surname. It is quite rare to see an owner’s initials on the pommel. The cross guard of this example is identical to Page 25. It shows outstanding detail to the bird’s eye, beak, breast feathering, wing feathering, wreath and raised out swastika. There is also exceptional patination, giving a fine look to this guard. The reverse of the cross guard has a professionally done three-line dedication. The dedication reads “Ehre u. Treue/23. 5.41/P.L.”. This dedication would translate to “Honor and Loyalty May 25, 1941 p.l.”. Since the initials on the cross guard match those of the pommel, I would not be surprised if this dagger may have been a gift from this man’s father. Perhaps he was promoted and the father presented this dagger to his son. This is just a guess on my part, however. The inscription is beautifully done and rendered in fine double spaced letters. The grip of this example is a choice tangerine color and it is in perfect condition, having even tones throughout. The hilt is wrapped with what appears to be the original 42cm portepee. This aluminum portepee is in the Army tie. It is interesting to note that the tie of the portepee is the 2nd variety where the knot portion comes out above the cross guard quillon instead of the 1st tie where the lower ball comes out above the knot. There is some fray which shows above the knot area, which indicates this portepee was worn for a while in the 1st tie. Things like this may not interest most collectors, but they do interest me. Seeing as the dagger is dated 1941, I would think that this portepee may have been a replacement because of the wear to the upper part of the portepee cording. The scabbard is a typical 2nd style, being in nice condition and having all of its silvering. There is a little bit of rippling at the lower portion, but it looks like wear time flaws, as opposed to dents. The silvering is 100% throughout the scabbard and the throat is the thicker type retained by a center placed screw in the reverse. The blade of this piece is mirror mint, having 100% of the original cross graining. The tip is absolutely needlelike and is a beauty. The reverse ricasso is etched with the 1935-41 squirrel trademark. The original small style brown leather blade buffer is in place. An outstanding dagger here, and although there is little possibility to research this piece, it is still fun to own an example having both a personalized pommel and dedicated cross guard.
Near Mint. $1,695.00

SPO - 080 - 27173C - ARMY OFFICER PERSONALIZED TO A BARON - WKC

This Army officer is an outstanding example having all black patination. It is a fine-conditioned dagger having textbook WKC mounts and scabbard. These mounts are identical to the example I show in my Army book on Pages 63, left and 64, left. The cross guard is identical to Page 66. The mounts have all silvering intact. The pommel depicts the 12 standing oak leaves around its perimeter. These leaves are in excellent condition, having black backgrounding. The rim of this pommel shows some minor hand wear, but no hits or flaws to its edges. The top has just a little bit of age under the plating, but the plating itself is intact. The pommel is darker in the recessed areas and lighter at the curvature of the top. This makes for a nice effect. The cross guard is black throughout, having slightly lighter features at the highest points. The cross guard features the “hatchet beaked” eagle typical of WKC. This eagle has great detail to his eye, checkered breast feathering, wing feathering, wreath and raised out swastika. The depiction is as good as you will ever see. The ferrule above is also the same as is shown on Page 64. The interesting part about this dagger, though, is on the reverse cross guard and we will get to that later on in the description. The grip of this example is a dark pumpkin orange color. It is perfect throughout, maybe being just the slightest bit darker on the obverse than the reverse. The hilt also has a fine original bullion portepee. This portepee remains in the Army tie and is the style that has the slide built into the stem. This portepee shows no fraying and is in mint condition. The WKC scabbard shows the same band design as Page 64. The pebble patterns are also crisp. The edges of this fine scabbard have much of the original silver frosting clinging beneath the lacquer. This is always a welcome site to collectors! The throat is a fairly thick variety and it is retained in the WKC fashion with one flathead side screw at the right. This scabbard is in full mint condition. The blade is also a beauty. It is completely mirror bright, having 100% of the cross graining. Its tip is needlelike. You will not see a finer blade. The reverse of this blade is etched with the knight head trademark which is positioned above the firm’s initials and location “WKC Solingen”. The blade has been protected by the in-place large size brown leather buffer. Now, to the real meat of this otherwise mint dagger! Affixed most likely with solder to the reverse of the cross guard is a silvered oval disc. This disc has the personalization of its original wearer. It features a most complicated design of a 9-prong German crown. The crown is positioned above an elaborate capital letter “L”. The engravings of this personalization are the best you will see. It is amazing that such high detail could be inserted in such a small area. Beautiful indeed. It is up to the next owner of this dagger to determine who this Baron “L” was. Chances are, the last name would surely be Leopold, but not being a genetic researcher, I do not know. What I do know, though, is that an engraving of this quality has to indicate an original owner of some importance. An absolute stunner here regarding the dagger as well as the personalization. I wish the next owner lots of luck with figuring out the puzzle.(#052708)
Mint. $2,495.00

SPO - 082 - HERMANN GÖRING FUNERAL SASH

This Göring Funeral Sash is the first example that I have acquired and I must say it is really something to view! Just like the Führer, Göring had his own special eagle embroidered for use on the funeral sashes he sent to be draped over the coffins of important German dignitaries funerals. This sash is a reddish-orange color made of silk. It is approximately 6 feet long and has very heavy gold bullion, 2-inch long fringe ,which hangs on the edges of both ends. This silk has swirls which run throughout the texture of the fabric. At one end there is applied gold lettering which reads, "Der Reichsmarschall des Grossdeutschen Reiches". This, of course, means "The Reichsmarschall of the Greater German Reich". (An identical funeral sash can be seen in my Navy Book on page 166, upper. One end of Göring's personal sash is displayed in the photograph showing the Kaiser's coffin when he died in 1942. Since the Kaiser's funeral was a state affair Göring sent his funeral sash as did Hitler himself. Hitler's sash is also visible in the photograph). At the opposite end of this funeral sash is a most impressive Reichsmarschall eagle. It is approximately 7 ½-inches in length by 7 ½-inches in width. It depicts a Political style eagle with closed wings. The eagle grasps in his claws a wreath. The wreath has superimposed crossed batons, and centered, is an immobile swastika. The swastika has embroidered Iron Crosses between its legs. The embroidery is done in a gold thread. It is enhanced with a bullion overlay which was done to enhance the characteristics of the bird's head, feathering, fledging of the legs, claws, detail to the batons, and also detail to the swastika legs themselves. The entire embroidery is done on a red woolen background which is sewn to the silk sash. A most beautiful Reichsmarschall eagle here and the last type that Göring used. This same eagle was used on Göring's right collar tab when he wore his Reichsmarschall's uniform. This funeral sash is in fine condition throughout showing only normal age. Somewhere along the line, a previous owner cut the sash into two pieces as it was apparently easier to display. This can be fixed if the next collector would want it joined together. I can easily have the lady who makes my four piece dagger bags take care of this, if the need is there. I personally think however, that the two pieces do make for a much easier display of this very stimulating item. Since I have never seen one of these offered, and since this is the first Göring sash I have had, I assume it is ultra rare. I have had a couple of the Hitler sashes in the past, and they are most beautiful also. This would be a great addition for the serious Luftwaffe collector's collection.
Excellent Plus, Plus (22695) $3495.00

SPO - 085 - 26064C - ARMY OFFICER DAGGER PRESENTED TO AFRIKA KORPS PANZER COMMANDER OBERST JOHANN MICKL PD LUNESCHLOSS

This Army Officer’s dagger has all-silvered fittings and they are the generic “B” variety, being identical to the style I show in my Army book on Page 99. The pommel is the usual type we see with the “B” generic cross guard, being the style with threaded stem inside, and having 14 leaves running around its perimeter. The cross guard eagle is an extremely good-looking example, having noble head, excellent breast and wing feathering, fine detail to the wreath and a highly-vaulted swastika. The grip is a beautiful egg-yolk yellow type, being in perfect condition. There is a 42 cm portepee in the proper tie wrapped about the hilt. The scabbard is a standard generic variety being identical to Page 120. The blade of this example is in pristine, mint condition, having the standard sword-piercing-helmet, double ellipse trademark, used by the P.D. Lüneschlöss firm. However, all of this is of little consequence, as it is the presentation appearing between the scabbard bands on the reverse that is of astounding nature. It is interesting to note the engraver removed the pebbled surfaces of the paneled area between the bands so that the four-line engraving could be easily read. This engraved dedication is “UNSEREM KOMANDEUR/OBERST J.MICKL HERZLICHEN/GLÜCKWUNSCH ZUM RITTERKREUZ/DIE STOLZEN 155 er”. This dedication basically translates to “TO OUR COMMANDER COLONEL J. MICKL WITH HEARTFELT BEST WISHES ON THE KNIGHT’S CROSS AWARD FROM THE PROUD 155 er”. Oberst Mickl was one of Rommel’s Panzer commanders and was instrumental in Rommel’s fight against Tobruk in North Africa. He won the Knight’s Cross for his outstanding leadership, and as the Allies were soon to learn, Rommel and his Panzer generals were huge adversaries despite their smaller numbers. Mickl went on to win the oak leaves for operations in Russia on 6 Marz 1943. At that time, he was the commander of the 25th Panzer Greniedere regiment. He was later killed on 10 April 1945, while commanding the 392nd Croatian Infantry division. At that time, he had been promoted to General Leutnant and had been wounded five times. This dagger was owned by one of the great German Panzer commanders who, to this day, were responsible for the reputation which will live on through history of these fantastic trained troops. He was a career officer, having served in both wars. This is a grand opportunity to own a dagger in which a whole display could be built around. This dagger comes with a large dossier detailing Mickl’s career. It is a wonderful artifact and would make even the most advanced collectors in our community smile. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity! Mint Minus. $9,995.00

Previous Page / Next Page / Main categories