Like all swords, Imperial edged weapons are very quickly appreciating as reference material becomes available. With the Johnson/Wittmann Imperial Reference available, now is the time to begin your Imperial Sword collection while prices are reasonable. Our book pictures, identifies and thoroughly deals with all swords, some previously unknown. As has been demonstrated many times in the past, once collectors understand the historical significance of their purchase, the demand tends to skyrocket... As well as the prices!

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1.  SWDSIMP #34935C Model 89 Jäger zu Pferde Degen

   This Model 89 Jäger zu Pferde Degen is in excellent condition throughout. The hilt features all nickel plated parts. The nickeling is 100% and still in good condition. The pommel is a smooth type, with large spanner screw at the top which retains the blade. The "D" guard sweeps downward, extending to a thicker segment at the bottom, and features a folding clamshell at the cross guard area. The clamshell portrays the Prussian eagle, which is pierced. The eagle has a crown over its head, and has open wings with the Royal Family crest at his breast. The eagle retains an orb in one claw and a sword in the other. The spring mechanism still works well. The grip is a fine, ribbed Bakelite, being black in color and being in totally perfect condition, with a fine sheen to its surface.

   The scabbard is straight as an arrow, and is the thicker type, as it accommodates a blade of larger proportion. This scabbard has had a professional paint job in the not-too-distant past. The paint still remains in choice, mint condition and really looks great matched up with this fine conditioned hilt. There is one hanging ring, which is stationary, and attached to the carrying band. The blade is a 32" straight example having a wide fuller. This blade is triple etched. On the obverse, the etching portrays some fine flowers, and in the panel upward, sets of crossed spears, standartes, and a helmet. In the center is a panel. Upward from the panel is a horse's head, and more flowers. The panel has a fine, blue background which shows just the slightest of age in a couple of places, but the blue is still all there. Raised out of the center area is the original owner's regiment, "JAGER REGT. zu. PFERDE Nr. 6.". This original owner was a member of the elite Jager zu Pferde. These soldiers were messengers who traveled in between units in the front. Since they were usually horsemen, they were also trained in all kinds of tactics, as they never knew what they would run into trying to accomplish their tasks. The reverse of the blade features an etching of a cuirass and calvary helmet at the first area and then there is a panel. At the panel there is an eagle with a Hussar helmet above. The panel on this side is also blued, and depicts an exceptional calvary charge. There is a regiment of Uhlan having spears, charging a cavalry regiment. The detail to the horses, the uniforms and the weapons is absolutely outstanding. The panel was also apparently applied for a patent, as it is marked, "GES. GESCH". The spine is etched with laurel leaves.

   This is a really great sword to put into a cradle, and show the blade off to your friends.

   Near Mint. $1,395.00

2. SWDSIMP #34936C Saxon Infantry Officer's Sword

   This Saxon Infantry Officer's sword is similar to the example shown in the Angolia sword book, on page 445. The hilt features all gilded brass parts. The pommel slopes slightly to the left, and flares outward at the top, where the tang is retained by being peened over. There is a "D" guard, which is dual lined for accent. The area below the pommel has a series of overlapping laurel leaves. The cross guard is a folding type clamshell on the obverse, and on the reverse is stationary. The clamshell features the crest of Saxony, and has floral designs around the crest, and the entire affair is pierced. There are some laurel leaves on the right side of the folding clamshell, which tie in with those on the pommel edges. The gilding throughout this hilt is still about 80-90%. There is a wood base, which is covered with a fine, blue, sharkskin, being in perfect condition. This hilt is triple wrapped with twisted wire, the center example being slightly larger. A fine hilt here!

   The scabbard shell is straight as an arrow throughout. It has the one hanging ring configuration. The scabbard appears to have been professionally repainted in the not-too-distant past. The paint job was extremely well-done, and other than a couple of extremely minor nicks, this paint remains in perfect condition. The blade is a thirty inch long example, having needle-like tip, and perfect, nickel plated surfaces. This mint blade is constructed being completely straight, and having twin fullers, running the length. On the obverse fuller there is an etched declaration of quality, being "EISENHAUER GARANTIRT". On the obverse ricasso, there is the etching of the King of Saxony's monogram, featuring a crown over the letters "AR". This monogram would have represented Albrecht Rex, who reigned from 1873-1902. The blade buffer is in place, and is an off-white felt type. A very nice Saxon officer's sword here, and a fairly rare piece.

   Near Mint. $795.00(#042213)

3. SWDSIMP #34717C Imperial Naval Sword From Gunship SNS Mars – W.K.& C.

   This interesting early Imperial Naval Sword goes back to about the 1890s. It is made from finest quality brass base having good hand enhancing throughout. The pommel is in the shape of the traditional lion head. This lion head looks a little different than the standard types probably because it is fairly early. The cat is not fitted with glass eyes having just eyes made of brass with punches in the center making for the pupils. The cat has outstanding details to his teeth, whiskers, brows and mane. The mane flows all the way down throughout the back strap having much enhancing. The “D” guard is the type with stationary basket. The “D” shaping area has the traditional naval designs with a pebble pattern in the center. At the center of the basket is an upright oval design which contains an Imperial crown positioned over a fouled anchor. The detail is outstanding throughout the crown and anchor and in these areas the backgrounds have also been thoroughly pebbled. The ferrule is a fine matching brass having raised laurel leaves which go about its circumference. The reverse langet is the folding type. It has an outstanding three line dedication professionally engraved into the surfaces. It states, “z.25 jähr. Dienst= Jubil./Deckoffz Mefse/S.N.S.Mars”. This dedication would roughly translate meaning that the sword was presented for the twenty-fifth anniversary of the deck officer Melse serving aboard SMF Mars. The Mars was an artillery training ship in the Imperial navy that was first commissioned in November of 1877. It served in the Imperial shipyard at Wilhelmshaven. Apparently this sword was given to a well though of deck officer. It would be very possible to do some research on this man as well as the gunship Mars. I’m not sure if a deck officer has the status of an actual “officer” or whether he is an NCO but either way there should be some ways to research this man.

   The grip of the sword is really outstanding. It is a genuine ivory example having turned to a pleasing golden color throughout and having nice grains. The grip still remains in perfect condition with no cracks or chips. This grip is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being the springy type. The scabbard is a fine black leather example showing little age. In fact this leather is still nice and supple and in great shape. It is decorated with the traditional twin lines that run down the edges of both sides. It is sewn up the rear in the usual manner. The scabbard mounts are matching patinated brass having the traditional naval engravings. These mounts are retained by staples being the style which are standard as opposed to the larger type. All staples are present and in place.

   The blade is a 31 inch long example which is quite long for a naval sword; apparently this deck officer was a large man. The sword has a slight quillback at the end. This sword is a triple etched type and the blade has turned fairly gray from age but the etches are still extremely nice having very fine detail and darker backgrounds to highlight them. The obverse etch features an Imperial crown over a fouled anchor in the center. Below this is a sailing ship which also has a smokestack in the center. The sails are all out along with an ensign flying. This dreadnaught sails over a pattern of waves. Below this are sea plant flowers which are also in place above the etch. The reverse etch has the same floral treatment and in the center there is a large fully rigged sailing ship flying an ensign. The spine has a series of floral motifs running around halfway down. The obverse blade is stamped with the early W.K.& C. trademark being the king next to the knighthead. The firm’s initials are below. The off red felt blade washer is in place having a small nip near the folding langet but otherwise is in great condition.

   A very interesting Imperial sword which would probably clean up quite a bit if someone wanted to take this job on.

   Excellent. $2,495.00

4. SWDSIMP #34718C Imperial Naval Sword with Damascus Blade – W.K.& C.

   This Imperial Naval Sword was once an extremely glorious item as it has many extra cost features about it. It is a great candidate for a restoration as it is all there and for the most part just needs some cleaning up by someone who is willing to spend some time and effort to rub out some of the dirt and grime that has accumulated over the years. The scabbard leather also needs replacing as the upper portion has been broken in half and now is held together by some black electrical tape. At any rate, I believe that this piece is priced accordingly and look forward to someone that is talented and energetic enough to put it back to good order.

   The hilt features the standard naval lion head. This cat is equipped with large sized red and green faceted eyes simulating the nautical enter and return colors used internationally for sea laying buoys. The cat has lots of nice enhancing particularly around the lower jaw and his mane. The mane runs only a short distance down the back strap. The remainder of the back strap features raised out oak leaf and acorns and the grip tabs have swirl style patterns which form a border throughout the back strap. The “D” guard is pierced which is a rarely seen extra as these piercings had to be all hand cut out and finished. This “D” guard displays beautiful oak leaf and acorn sprigs with nice hand enhancing to the veins of the leaves. The obverse clamshell is a hinged folding type and it displays a pierced oval in the center with an Imperial crown over a fouled anchor. Flanking the oval are springs of oak leaves and acorns. The reverse langet is also hinged and folding having oak leaves on its outside and on the inside area has the original owner’s surname professionally engraved, “Renser”. I looked the name up in the Imperial rank list but did not find this officer listed. This would mean that apparently this officer did not serve during World War I and most likely did his two year stint sometime around the turn of the century which would be indicated by the logo style stamped into the blade.

   The grip is a very fine ivory. This genuine ivory has turned a golden color and has some pleasing grains in the surfaces. There are some surface cracks mostly on the reverse area but no chips or problems. This ivory is tightly wrapped with twisted brass wire. The scabbard as mentioned above is broken at a point between the upper and center mount. The lower leather area does have a kink towards the bottom but otherwise is still in pretty good shape. The scabbard mounts are real beauties that should clean up quite nicely with some effort. These mounts are all rendered in a fish scale pattern with borders of oak leaves at each end. The bands are oak leaf types having eyelets also with oak leaf designs which also extend to the carrying rings. These mounts are retained by staples in the usual manner.

   The “maiden hair” style Damascus blade is a long 32 inches. It is the style that is equipped with a quillback. The Damascus pattern is still very strong throughout the blade but unfortunately there are some dark age spots spaced throughout most of the surfaces. These spots however are not real deep and much of this could be rubbed out with some effort. I have found in the past that Damascus is so hard that you can literally sand it with emery paper and it will not hurt the finish only taking off the bad spots. This trick could be used here on this blade. The blade as it is only rates at about good plus but could be brought up to at least excellent. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the king and the knighthead next to each other having the firm’s initials beneath, “W.K.&C.”. The original off red blade buffer is in place.

   Once again a good sword here that has potential to be really nice. There must be someone out there than can make a leather scabbard shell. Perhaps a letter written to W.K.& C who is still in business in Solingen could be of some help with this effort. I have never done this before but since this firm is still in business and knowing the Germans the way I do, I’m sure that they are always looking for work. A good opportunity here to add a nice sword to a naval collection for a reasonable price.

   Good Plus. $1,995.00

5. #34631C Massive Grosser Pattern Lionhead Saber with Dramatic Curved Damascus Presentation Blade - M.Karguth, Berlin

   This Imperial Grosser Lionhead Saber is one of the largest pieces I have seen in my career. The lionhead is a huge Grosser pattern hilt, having most beautiful decorative highlights throughout, and of the absolute highest quality. The lion's head has outstanding detail to the features encompassing the jaw, whiskers, brow, and mane hair. This huge feline is fitted with red faceted eyes. The backstrap features raised floral designs, and the large "P" guard has raised oak leaf sprigs throughout, with handsome hand pebbling in the backgrounds. The ferrule has a series of laurel leaves which are in relief around the circumference. The crossguard has a diamond pattern between borders, and there are also small "x" marks within the diamonds. This pattern continues on both sides of the guard. The reverse langette has a family crest design, with a crown over a knight, which is positioned above a shield. There are no markings within the shield, and I'm not sure whether this is a generic style design, or an actual family crest. The obverse langette features crossed well-detailed cannon, which are positioned above laurel leaves. The backgrounds here also have fine, pebbled designs. The quillon ends in a roaring lionhead, also having outstanding detail to its features. The grip is composed of a carved wood base, covered with rayskin. The original blue color is still mostly there to the rayskin, and there are no cuts or problems to the surfaces. This grip is tightly wrapped with triple twisted silver wire, the center being of larger dimension.

   In keeping with the massive size of the hilt, the blade is also of huge proportion. In addition to its large girth, it also has a dramatic curve, which is almost Middle Eastern in its shape. This massive Damascus blade is a "Damas Stahle" pattern at the lower half. The blade is also equipped with a quillback. The first half of the blade on the obverse has a large panel containing a blue background and gold inlay. It features a military theme at the upper area, with drum, knapsack, and swords. The area below has a series of oak leaves and acorns which flow around two, fine, ribbon depictions. Within the top ribbon is the dedication, "HUHE s/l. SCHLUTTIG," and in the lower pattern is "Kriegsschule Reisse 1895". Obviously, the first name, Kuhe, went to officer school with the second name, Schlutting. The school being "Reisse". This war school was located in northern Germany. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the distributor's name "M. Karguth, Berlin". The reverse blade also has blue and gilt inlay panels, which consist of war theme generic scenes. In the lower panel are the words for the best of steel, "EISENHAUER/DAMAST-STAHL". This blade shows some age throughout, having a minor amount of rust with some black spots toward the lower portion, but overall, the blue and gilt is still at about 80-85%, and the sight of such a monster blade tends to overcome any of these shortcomings. With the two officers' names, as well as the year and school they graduated from officer candidate school, there should be a good chance of researching this sword. It is possible that the capital letter on the first name is misinterpreted, but maybe someone who understands this Gothic better than I could help with this.

   The curved, steel scabbard has a black paint job, which appears to have been done years ago, but definitely is not the original finish. There are also some dents and dings that remain on both sides of the scabbard, but given the weight and large size of this weapon, these dings are almost to be expected. A tremendous sword here, and a great opportunity to acquire an historic sword that will easily give pleasure to the next owner for decades to come.

   Excellent. $13,995.00

6. SWDSIMP #34632C Grosser Pattern Model 89 Infantry Sword with Blue and Gold Damascus Blade - WKC

   This huge Model 89 Imperial infantry Sword is absolutely the top of the line, from WKC. The heavy cast brass mounts are in outstanding condition, having hand enhanced depictions throughout. The pommel cap bears the elaborate, cipher-like monogram of the original owner, "KB". The area below the pommel, which acts as a backstrap, has a raised out head of a god-like figure, with a long beard and mustache. A great looking mythological god here! The "P" guard is a beautiful example that incorporates a stationary basket at the bottom. The "D" guard spreads into three openings at the bottom, featuring a Prussian eagle with crown. The eagle has the Kaiser's cipher on his chest, "WR II". The bird carries a scepter in his right claw, and a sword in his left. The detail throughout the bird's feathering is outstanding. This feathered look also extends up the surfaces of the three separate arms that make up the "D" guard. The area below at the crossguard features raised floral devices on both sides. There is no limit spared on the amount of handwork here. The Prussian eagle is even duplicated on the inside of the basket with outstanding detail. The ferrule features raised laurel leaves that run about its circumference. The gilt throughout this hilt appears to be about 90-95%.

   The grip appears to be a carved ebony. The ribs slope downward from right to left, and are tightly wrapped with silver twisted wire. The grip is decorated with a Prussian crown over the Kaiser's cipher "WR II". There is also a "finger hanger" positioned between the ferrule and the upper crossguard. The leather of this finger hanger is still intact, having a white surface showing some age. A most impressive hilt here!

   The Damascus blade is in the same proportion as the hilt: huge. This straight blade has twin ferrules that run the length, with a single edge. The Damascus pattern is the "Damast Stahl". This Damascus is still in excellent condition, with little signs of age. The upper portion of the Damascus blade has a large, blue background panel with gold inlay. It is truly a sight to behold, looking like jewelry, with its rich, gold look, which is still nearly 100% throughout. The obverse panel features a series of golden oak leaves and acorns which surround two ribbons. There is a dedication in the two ribbons, "UCHTENHAGEN s./l./GURKE, METZ 1895/96". Obviously, this sword was given by Gurke to Metz in celebration of their officer schooling in 1895 & 1896. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the king and knight figures side by side, with the firm's initials "W.K.& C." The reverse blade has an additional blue and gilt panel, and is also in phenomenal condition. The upper panel has a two ribbon presentation surrounded by oak leaves, and has a raised slogan, "DEN FEINDEN WEHR SUSCHUTZ meine EHR!". This has something to do with "My honor will protect me against the enemy". Below this is the cipher of the infantry regiment, which was based in Metz. The cipher shows a Barvarian crown over the cipher for King Wilhelm II of Wurttemburg, which represented the fourth infantry regiment, which was garrisoned in Metz, and was raised in 1706. Metz is a city which is located in the Alsace Lorraine section, which went back and forth between France and Germany. At this time, Metz was a German city. The blade spine has the distributor name and town "Gust. Gunther Metz". I cannot emphasize more how impressive this outstanding blade is, with its beautiful blue and gold dedications, and its outstanding Damascus pattern at the lower portion. The scabbard is a nickeled type, having two stationary hanging rings. The nickeling is fairly good throughout the upper portion, but does show some age toward the lower area. The scabbard is nice and straight, with the throat retained by two dome head side screws.

   An outstanding opportunity here, to acquire a real showpiece for your collection, and also a great candidate for historical research. A very beautiful weapon!

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $15,500.00

7. SWDSIMP #34634C Imperial Grosser Pattern Model 89 Infantry Degen with Gilded Dedidcated Blade - M. Neumann

   This Imperial Model 89 Degen is a huge example, being of the Grosser size. The highest quality brass has been extensively rendered throughout, and there is a lot of relief shown in these designs that is not normally seen on Imperial swords. The pommel cap, suprisingly, has no monogram, and is plain. The reverse backstrap, though, makes up for the pommel plainess, as this has a high relief floral design with hand enhancing evident. The "D" guard also has outstanding high relief with hand enhancing and pebbling in the backgrounds. The "D" guard has the three tier stationary basket at the lower. The basket portrays an artistically rendered Prussian eagle, having much more detail than we normally see. This bird wears the Prussian crown with cross on the top, and has the Kaiser's cipher on his breast, "WR II". The bird grasps a scepter in his left claw, and a sword in his right. The lower portion of the basket has more beautiful floral designs, as does the upper portion. I can't emphasize how deep these engravings are rendered. The ferrule also repeats this floral design, and has the same high relief. There is the remants of a finger hanger between the ferrule and lower basket, but the portion which would be grabbed by the finger is gone to time. The outstanding grip is a beautiful sharkskin, still having its beautiful blue color with lots of grains and no problems to the skin. There is an applied brass cipher, featuring the crown over "WR II" cipher. A very impressive hilt here.

   The blade is an extra large proportion type, being over 33 inches in length, and having a double fuller running nearly the complete distance to the tip. This blade is in full mint condition, with highest quality, nickel-plated surfaces. The obverse of the blade has a gold inlaid panel, which runs at least a third of the blade's distance. The panel has outstanding raised floral decoration, with a gray colored background. Raised out is the dedication of one officer candidate in admiration to another, "JORDAN s./l. STIFFT". The reverse has the same length panel, and there is raised floral decoration throughout this length. It is interesting to note that the ricasso itself has been engraved on both sides with floral devices. The spine has oak leaves, and bears the raised out name of the distributor, "M. NEUMANN, HOFLIEFERANT BERLIN". The word Hoflieferant means that the Neumann firm was a supplier to the Royal Family. The scabbard of this example is nice and straight, and has received a new black paint job. The paint is professionally done, and looks extremely well. A very fine sword here, which would make a great presentation on a cradle, to highlight your Imperial collection.

   Near Mint. $4,995.00

8. SWDSIMP #34635C Imperial Grosser Pattern Uhlan Lionhead Sword with Blue and Gold Presentation Damascus Blade - WKC

   This extremely large, Grosser pattern Lionhead Sword is a most impressive sword. The gilded brass is of highest quality and reflects the best hand chasing of the time. The beautiful cat is fit with faceted red eyes, and there is hand enhancing to his chin, whiskers, brow, and of course, to the mane, which flows back to the backstrap. The backstrap has a floral pattern, and it is nicely random stippled in the plain areas. The "P" guard is extremely wide, featuring raised out oak leaf sprigs, with acorns. There is matching stippling in the backgrounds of these areas also. The crossguard area is decorated with diamond-like shapes, having "cross" marks within the diamonds. This crossguard has a quillon, which ends in a roaring lion. The reverse langette has a factory style family crest, which is a generic cast, and below, there is a shield device which has the recipient's family crest engraved into the surface. It is quite an impressive crest, with a winged bird over a knight's head, and then there is a further shield with four separate quadrants. The detail to the quadrants is really too small to tell all of them, but the top left and bottom right appear to be standing lions. The top right and bottom left are difficult to see, but they apparently match. The obverse langette features an Uhlan pattern, featuring crossed lances and a pair of crossed swords. There is a wreath superimposed over the depiction, and the backgrounds are all hand stippled. The grip is a very fine, sharkskin material, which shows a little bit of age on the obverse, but the flaws appear to have been colored in, and nicely match the rest of the grip. This grip is wrapped in triple-twisted silver wire, the center being of slightly larger proportion. The wire is slightly loose toward the bottom area, but it is all there. A very impressive hilt here!

   The 32 inch long, curved blade is also of the large proportion style, having a quillback at the end. The Damast pattern is the typical "Damast Stahl". The pattern is still extremely bold, and shows little age, easily rating in near mint condition. The third of the Damascus blade is covered with beautiful blue and gold inlay, featuring military designs and a fine dedication on the obverse. This dedication features two ribbons with the raised out presentation, "FRH. von AYH s./l./von GUNTHER 1896". Surrounding the ribbons are beautiful gilded acorns and oak leaves. Above the dedicated panel is a fine scene of a helmet cuirass, a sword, and drums. The reverse blade features several scenes, the upper portion being standartes, swords, and a long trumpet, all superimposed over laurel leaves. Beneath this is an oak leaf and acorn sprig, and beneath this is an additional family crest. This crest is very similar to the example engraved on the langette, in that it has the wings over a knight's helmet, but the seal is slightly different. The seal seems to feature three Greek-like buildings with columns. Below this crest are more oak leaves and floral designs. The obverse ricasso is marked with the king and knight trademark, with the firm's initials below, "W.K.& C". The spine of the Damascus blade is also in blue and gilt, having oak leaf designs and the raised name of the distribution firm, "EDUARD KUHNE ERFURT". This blade easily is in near full mint condition. The sword scabbard has a couple of minor dents on the reverse, but the obverse is clean. The scabbard has a good, blued surface, and has dual carrying bands. These bands are in brass with raised laurel leaf designs. The carrying ring has been removed from the lower band, a common practice we see on swords that were carried after 1906.

   An outstanding opportunity here to acquire a very rare sword. Uhlan regiments were not all that common, and to find a huge Grosser size example with all this blue and gold is almost too much to grasp. A collector's dream here!

   Excellent Plus, Plus. $13,995.00

9. SWDSIMP #34636C Imperial Grosser Pattern Lionhead Sword with Uhlan Motif and Damascus Blade - M. Neumann

   This immense Grosser pattern Lionhead Sword is a real showstopper. The detail work throughout the lionhead is state of the art. The cat is fitted with red, faceted eyes. Lots of details are enhanced throughout the cat's head to include the lower jaw, the whiskers, the brow, and of course, the flowing mane. The backstrap has beautiful, raised, floral work, and in the center area has a floral border which flows into the grip side tabs, and in the center features a stunning diamond pattern with stippling in the center areas. This diamond pattern is also featured at the wide center area of the sword's "P" guard. This design is extremely effective, and catches the eye. Above and below the diamond center crest are floral devices with more pebbling. The crossguard area features diamond engravings with dots in the middle. The ferrule above has heart- shaped floral devices which run around its circumference. The obverse and reverse langette have raised out floral images at the top of both depictions, which nicely highlights the langette area below, which is also bordered with pebbled, raised areas. On the reverse, the area is plain, left open for engraving, and on the obverse, there has been applied a set of silvered crossed lances, each with a swallowtail pennant. Most beautiful indeed. The grip is a fine sharkskin, which is in 100% condition, being secured with triple-twisted silver wire, with the center wire being of larger proportion. I can't emphasize enough how handsome this hilt is. In fact, this same sword is pictured in the Johnson/Wittmann book, "Collecting The Edged Weapons of Imperial Germany", on page 204.

   The huge Damascus blade is of immense proportions, having a quillback design, and a light "Damas Stahle" hand forged blade, with quillback. The Damas pattern is all there, and is of a fairly subtle design, but remains very beautiful. There is only minor age noticeable in the blade. The upper third of the blade has a large panel, which is bordered with raised floral designs, and gold inlay. In the center area, is a loving father's dedication to his son, most likely presented on the son's birthday, or graduation from officer candidate school, "IHREM lieben SOHNE WALTHER/ 18 NOVEMBER 1893." I'm sure that Walther must have been most pleased with this gift. Can you imagine how you would feel if your father gave you a weapon of this caliber! The ricasso has the cipher of the father within a raised, oval border. The cipher appears to be, "HS". The reverse ricasso has the cipher of the son being done in the same manner, and having a blue background, "WS". The reverse panel is filled with floral designs. A spectacular blade here!

   The spine of the blade contains the raised name of the prestigious Berlin distributor, "M. Neumann Hoflieferant Berlin". Walther's father must have been a member of the German aristocracy, as the Neumann firm was known as probably the best supplier to the Royal Family. The scabbard of this example is a huge piece of metal needed to support such a beautiful blade. This scabbard is basically dent free and with a blued finish. There are a couple of ripples here and there, but nothing serious. A great opportunity here to acquire a showpiece Imperial sword. This example has to be one of the most impressive pieces I have handled. It really ought to be in a museum!

   Excellent Plus. $14,500.00

10. SWDSIMP #34637C Imperial Naval Grosser Pattern Sword with Dedicated Damascus Blade - A. Luneburg, Kiel

    This Imperial Naval Officer's Sword is of the large Grosser pattern, being cast of finest brass. The lionhead is a beauty, being equipped with green and red eyes, following the nautical theme of the Navy. The lion has outstanding hand enhanced detail to his lower jaw, whiskers, brow, and mane. The mane terminates a short distance onto the backdrop. The backdrop is filled with very fine floral designs, with hand pebbling, hand enhancing to the veins. The "D" guard and basket are a stationary part. The "D" guard is decorated with raised out sea plant designs, and below them is a dolphin within more sea plants. At the center area is a fouled anchor beneath the Imperial crown. The anchor is positioned within an oval design which is made to resemble rope. At the right, there is an additional sea monster type animal, raised out of the corner area. I like these sea animals very much, and I must say, I have never seen them before on a naval sword. I do not know the producer of this sword, as Luneberg was a naval retail store located in Kiel. The sword must have been produced by a small maker, as this crossguard/basket hilt design is unique. The reverse of the basket is equipped with a hinged fold-down flap, with hole for locking the blade. The flap at the lower has raised designs consisting of a scallop shell in the center, surrounded by cattail images. A very nice look here! The obverse of the locking flap has an owner's name professionally engraved. The name is "LEIBBARND". I tried looking this name up in the Imperial Great War list, but did not find him listed. It is interesting, because the name on this flap does not appear on the blade, which has a dedication bearing two names! The grip of this fine saber is a most beautiful, genuine ivory example. The grip has appealing golden tones throughout both of its surfaces, and there is also some attractive graining. There are some cracks in the grip that run on the obverse edge area, and as we all know, grip cracks in ivory are a plus, not a minus. This grip is perfect otherwise, and it tightly wrapped with a very thick, twisted, silver wire. A fine hilt here!

    The blade of this example is a "Damas Stahl" Damascus type, showing some age in the surfaces, but the age is not really pitting, but is just in the form of some mild dark spots. The blade measures 32 inches throughout. It appears to have had some old sharpening at one time, which has been professionally removed, and I doubt whether most people would notice that this sharpening occurred. There was a time before the great war, when blades were ordered to be sharpened as a symbolic symbol of warfare. There is also a quillback end on this Damascus blade. On the obverse, raised out without a panel, and in a straight line, is the dedication, "TILLY s./l. SPEZEL. OCTOBER 1900". I also took the liberty of looking up these two names, and alas, neither one of them is listed as a participant in the Great War. What is unusual here, is the fact that the name on the locking clamshell does not agree with either of the names on the dedication. This is somewhat difficult to explain, but perhaps the sword was worn by a relative of the original recipient, which would have been "Spezl". Under the rules of wearing weapons, as long as a relative served honorably, it was okay to wear his weapon by an additional family member also serving in the Navy. The spine of this example has the name of the well-known Naval retailer, A. Luneburg Kiel".

    An additional anomaly with this sword is the scabbard. The scabbard is the traditional leather shell. The shell leather is still in excellent condition, sewn up the rear, in the normal manner. Stamped into the reverse leather are the numbers "943". The mounts on this scabbard are brass, but they are not in the traditional naval motif. Rather, all mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather, and are also engraved with twin accent lines. The surfaces otherwise are plain throughout. I would guess that somewhere along the line, this scabbard must be a replacement. There are a number of things on this sword which will be a challenge to the next owner to figure out. I believe though, the three names on the sword are there for a purpose, and should be fun to somehow research, and connect the dots. A replacement scabbard is not the worst thing in the world, as this scabbard fits nicely, and appears to be the proper length for the blade. A good Naval sword to add to an Imperial Naval collection, for interest.

    Excellent. $5,995.00

11. SWDSIMP #34641C Model 89 Infantry Degen with Dedicated Etched Blade – W.K.&C.

    This model 89 infantry degen is of much larger proportion than we normally see. I’m not sure that it is the Grosser pattern or not but it is definitely a large sword. The brass hilt is of highest quality and easily has about 95% of the original gild across the surfaces. The pommel cap is plain as is the backstrap. The “D” guard which encompasses the stationary basket and crossguard assembly is also a beauty featuring a Prussian eagle with Imperial crown and the Kaiser’s cipher on his breast, “WRII”. There is no additional decoration to the three tiered basket, being plain. The ferrule is also plain. The grip is a beautiful sharkskin having its fine original blue purple color. This sharkskin is still in mint condition being tightly wrapped with triple twisted brass wire, the center being of larger proportion for contrast. The Kaiser’s cipher is also in the grip’s center being a crown over the initials, “WRII”. The blade of this example is a 32-inch straight type having double fuller construction. The blade is as nice as you will ever see easily being in full mint condition. There are etched panels which appear on both sides and occupy more than half of the blade length. The obverse panel has a series of floral motif with a dedication in the center. The dedication is highlighted by frosted backgrounds which easily rate at 100%. The dedication reads in fine Gothic relief, “Leutnant Haupt s./l. Dr Charles Stratmann / zur Erinnerung”. This dedication basically means, “From Lieutenant Haupt in admiration of Dr. Charles Stratmann in remembrance”. The blade trademark is stamped into the obverse ricasso consisting of the king and knightheads being side by side with the firm’s initials beneath, W.K.&C.”. This trademark would date from the period of about 1895 to just after the turn of the century. This mint blade is so beautiful it is hard to imagine that this sword is well over 110 years old. The reverse panel is also very beautiful featuring more floraling but also adding a nice military scene consisting of standartes along with a drum, swords and a cannon. The spine is matching etched with floral designs. An extremely beautiful blade here in absolute brand new condition. The scabbard is also a great item being straight throughout and having outstanding original nickel-plated surfaces. The scabbard is equipped with dual hanging bands and rings. It is also interesting to note that the upper reverse eyelet is stamped, “50”. The throat is the flared upward type. This scabbard is also in mint condition. A most beautiful sword here and if you’re looking for quality and condition along with an interesting blade this example should be for you. .

    Mint Minus $1995.00

12. SWDSIMP #34055 Imperial Naval Sword with Damascus Blade – Carl Eickhorn

    This Imperial Naval Sword has an unusual pattern which I do not see listed in any of the catalogs. I don’t know whether it was a one off or whether it was just a design that may have come after my catalog was printed. (I have a 1906 version.) The design is a traditional lion head with the cat being fitted with a green and red eye. This motif of course, fits with the naval nautical guidance system used with buoys. The lion has outstanding detail throughout his lower jaw, whiskers, brown and mane. There is obvious hand work to be seen throughout this pommel area. The backstrap features a small amount of the lion’s mane running down and then it becomes raised oak leaves with acorns. The design is supplemented with some nice random hand pebbling especially around the center area and the grip tab areas. The “D” guard features oak leaves which are also in a unusual pattern. They are not sprigs but are rather single leaves mostly overlapping each other over the length of the guard. There is also fine random pebbling on the plain areas. The reverse langet features a folding hinge and it is holed where it folds over a male counterpart mounted on the scabbard reverse upper area. The obverse clamshell is also folding and it features a fouled anchor with crown above it placed on a 45 degree angle. The detail is really astounding to this crown and anchor, especially to the chain links of the anchor chain. Surrounding the anchor are single style oak leaves all with beautiful veins and there are also acorns positioned here and there. The background areas all have random pebbling. I would say that this brass hilt has about 85-90% of the original gilded finish. The grip of this example appears to be ivory at first glance as it has toned to this rich color. It is celluloid however over a carved wood base. Unfortunately the celluloid has a crack in it which runs on the upper left obverse surface and curves toward the reverse at the center rig. It is not a big deal and it is not threatening in any way. There are also a couple of hairline cracks that appear in the ribs below but I have to emphasize that there is no lose of material and there is no chance of anything happening further with this flaw. The grip is tightly wrapped with triple twisted brass wire. These wires are nice and tight and they are all of the same proportion. A very interesting hilt here and the first of this design that I have seen.

    The scabbard is the standard black leather shell. The shell is sewn up the rear and it is further decorated with twin lines which run the length of the edges on all sides. This leather is still in very fine condition showing almost no age. The scabbard shell is fitted with matching gilded brass mounts. These mounts have the standard naval engravings and they are scalloped on the edges where they meet the leather. Each mount is retained by a brass staple on the reverse. The upper and center mount have eyelets having a serrated center surface, complete with carrying rings.

    The blade of this example is 30 inches in length and has a quill back design like we see on many naval sword blades. The blade is a hand forged Damascus, the type of which we refer to as “Damaststahl”. The blade pattern is still very prominent. There are a few very mild age spots in the surfaces but no pitting, rust or problems. This is a very fine blade that any serious collector would enjoy gazing upon and having in his collection. The blade is stamped on the reverse with the imperial logo used by the Carl Eickhorn firm. It consists of back to back squirrels, with the firm’s initials, “C.E.” beneath the two animals. The original blade washer has gone to time. A very nice Damascus naval sword here. If you are considering adding a Damascus sword to your collection this is a good one as it is not priced high in the sky and it is a fine blade along with a rarely seen pattern.

    Excellent Plus. $3,395.00

13. SWDSIMP #34349 Imperial Shooting Guild Sword with Blue Panel

    This fine Lion Head Sword is probably an Imperial piece but since there is no maker mark on the blade it is difficult to exactly date it. The overall look of it however would indicate something from the imperial day. The pommel has an outstanding lion head having interesting features which give this cat a very kindly look. He has red eyes that are set so that they pop eye outward. These eyes have a lighter red look and the way they are cut are more interesting than we normally see on swords. The lion has nice detail throughout with hand scribing evident especially around the glass eyes and also on the top of his mane. The mane ends abruptly and the back strap becomes plain. In the center area there is a diamond like shape with floral decoration around it which extends into the grip tabs. The “P” guard also has some matching plain surfaces but also has a large raised out floral device at its beginning and at the center has a fine plain shield having floral design running around it. The area surrounding this shield is all hand checkered. A great look here. The crossguard area is plain with an additional lion head fashioned to form the quillon end. The langet on the reverse is completely plain and on the obverse there is the raised crest for the city of Recklinghausen. It consists of a castle with three turrets positioned over a shield which has a further castle having a key serving as its entrance. The area around the shield is all hand pebbled. A very fine crest here. Above the crossguard is a ferrule which has raised out floral devices. The grip appears to be a hard style wood which is black in color. The ribbed sections are tightly wrapped with triple twisted wire, the center being of larger proportion. The wire is all there and is nice and tight.

    The scabbard is straight throughout except for one very small ding on the obverse a little past the halfway point. This scabbard has a blue finish. The blue shows age but basically is still all there. There is one carrying ring on this scabbard along with a single band. The fine 32 inch long blade is nickel-plated and is of highest quality. Both sides of the blade contain a panel. The panel on the obverse has a blued background. The blue is starting to thin from age but it still remains at about 80-90%. Both panels are framed on the ends with the fleur de lis designs which indicate that this is an Eickhorn made sword since this company was the sole producer of this design. On the front panel the dedication reads, “Bürgerschützengilde Recklinhausen”. This indicates that the sword comes from the shooting gild of Recklinhausen. The reverse panel has a frosted background and repeats the fleur de lis designs on the edges. This panel is raised etched, “Bürgersinn, Einigkeit, Vaterlandliebe”. This pretty much means, “Citzenship, Loyalty and Love of Country”. This sword was no doubt carried by one of the members of the Recklinhausen Shooting Club. Perhaps the head officer of the group would have worn this fine edged weapon. A very nice item here and extremely well done.

    Excellent Plus. $1,195.00

14. SWDSIMP #33799 Imperial Shooting Award Lion Head Sword

    This outstanding Imperial Shooting Award Sword is listed in the Eickhorn catalog as model number “828”. Despite the fact that the blade is unmarked we do know for sure that this is an Eickhorn product. The hilt is composed of all brass mounts. There is not any gilt remaining to the hilt but the detail throughout is quite extraordinary. The hilt features a pommel with a noble lion head. The lion head does not have the glass eye feature but the hand enhancing to details such as the jaw, whiskers, brow and mane are extremely well done. The backstrap is plain except in the middle there is a diamond shape left plain for a monogram which flares out to the grip tabs. The “P” guard also has a diamond design with floraling. The grip ferrule features floral designs that run around its circumference. The reverse langet is plain. The obverse langet features a pair of crossed swords with floral borders. The quillon ends in a lion head which is also nicely hand detailed.

    The grip of this example is celluloid over carved wood. This grip remains in perfect condition still having a nice shine to its finish. The grip is tightly wrapped with triple twisted brass wire. The center wire is just slightly larger for contrast. The scabbard is straight throughout. This scabbard is a real beauty being nickel-plated and still having a perfect original finish. It is rare to see nickeling that could have held up this well on a sword that is a century old. The sword is also equipped with dual ring suspension. This was a “must” for shooting gilt swords which this example represents. Even shooting swords made in the 1930s will have dual ring suspension and often nickel-plated scabbards. At any rate, this scabbard is a real beauty and still in mint condition.

    The beautiful blade is 30½ inches in length. This blade is of highest quality nickel-plated surfaces having a needlike tip. The blade is in full mint condition. The obverse center area has a frosted panel with raised two line dedication. The panel has the fleur de lis borders which identify this sword as a Carl Eickhorn product as the blade is not marked. I looked the sword up in the 1906 Eickhorn catalog and found it to be there as model number 828. the panel has 100% of the original frosted backgrounds and the dedication reads, “Bürger Schützengilde / Recklinghausen-Süd 1913”. Obviously this sword was awarded by the head of the shoothing gild for the town of Recklinghausen South in 1913. This would be a fine item to display with some other shooting forestry hunting things. A nice sword here still in fine original condition.

    Near Mint. $1,495.00

15. SWDSIMP #33902 Imperial Jawless Lion Head Cavalry Sword

    This Imperial Jawless Lion Head Sword has a very interesting design with square-shaped langets. The lion head is a great looking cat having a kind of “giving up” look to his face. He really looks good! The cat has all handwork to his whiskers, eyes, brows and mane. It is interesting to note that his mane ends almost at the back of the pommel and instead of a mane the fur is ended in what appears to be four lion claws on each side of the head. A very interesting design! The backstrap is plain and then in the middle is has beautifully hand engraved oak leaves in a circle having a round flower in the middle. This design is further accented with acanthus leaves that run around the perimeter and also extend onto the grip tabs. I must say the workmanship is quite superb on these enhancements. The “P” guard is surprisingly thin but is composed of thick metal. It has a slot at the top which was most likely used for retainage of a portepee. The slot area is also decorated with raised acanthus leaves. Below this and at the bend of the “P” guard is a knight’s head. The armor is beautifully done with three feathers at the top. The knight appears to have a woman’s breast with necklace and bodice. (This sword has some humor in it whether it was meant to or not.) Further down is an ellipse design raised out with floral inside and it is surrounded by leafing. Below this is a set of standartes having a set of shoulder boards below the flags. At the bottom area there is another large acanthus leaf decoration. I must emphasize how great the detail is on this piece. The ferrule is also most beautiful being more narrow than most and also having an interesting raised design running around it with beaded borders. The crossguard areas are plain but at the center below is a square langet featuring a set of raised crossed swords over a raised wreath of laurel leaves. The backgrounds are all hand pebbled. The relief on this depiction is extraordinary. The reverse langet is also square but is plain. The crossguard ends in a fine swirled quillon of floral design. Beautiful work here!

    The grip is a fine sharkskin type. The sharkskin covers a hand carved wood grip. The sharkskin still retains its original purple blue color and it is in perfect condition. There is no rot on this grip. The sharkskin is retained by twin twisted silver wire. A most beautiful hilt here worthy of much study. I took a look in the 1906 Eickhorn catalog to see whether this firm offered a similar sword and indeed they do being model number 606. The Eickhorn design does not look quite as elaborate as this one but it has the same square langet with crossed cavalry swords and jawless lion head motif. So, apparently this sword was offered for anyone’s choice of purchase but apparently it was not a big seller as I don’t recall seeing many swords of this design over my years of experience. I might add also that the hilt is larger than a standard hilt. I’m not sure it is a Grosser pattern but it is bigger than the norm. The scabbard of this example is nice and straight throughout. It is a very wide scabbard as the blade of this sword is also of larger proportion. This sword still has its original black paint. It shows some age and quite a bit of usage but it is still not in too bad a condition. The sword is equipped with dual carrying ring construction.

    The large blade of this example is 33 inches in length and equipped with a quill back end. This blade is triple etched and still is mostly bright. I’m sure it would clean up quite a bit more than it is if someone wanted to take some care with it. The blade surfaces are highest quality nickel and the nickeling still has its original brightness. The etched panels are all military them with the obverse having much floraling with a carass over drums and a standarte. There are cannon crossed behind the drums. The reverse has similar floral designs and there are depictions of standartes with drums, horns and additional crossed cannon. A very nice blade here. The spine is also laurel leaf etched. The one side of the blade has a etching of what is probably a maker’s name but I can not make it out. On the other side is the city name, “Solingen”. It would be a good project for the next owner to figure out the maker of this blade. A very fine sword here and in my opinion a rarely seen variety. A good example for those out there collecting imperial types.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $795.00

16. SWDSIMP #33800 Imperial Bavarian Infantry Sword – Carl Eickhorn

    This Imperial Bavarian Infantry Sword from, of course, Bavaria, was made by the Carl Eickhorn firm and it is listed in their 1906 catalog as model number 185. The sword has an all nickel hilt with an unusual guard that is in the shape of the letter, “S”. The guard is thinner than most but has an interesting effect. The pommel is rounded and the top has a tang nut consisting of a large screw. The screw does not look to have ever been turned. The backstrap is smooth throughout as is the “S” guard. The crossguard is plain and just after the grip area has two slots which were meant for carrying the portepee. The quillon curves to a teardrop end. The ferrule has four sets of twin lines for decoration. The hilt has little to no wear and still retains nearly all of its original finish.

    The grip is a black celluloid over a carved wood base. The celluloid is in complete perfect condition and is tightly wrapped with double twisted brass wire. It is interesting to note that the lower wire is a slightly smaller proportion. A fine looking hilt here. The scabbard is an outstanding example being straight throughout. The lower portion of the scabbard on the obverse side has a few nicks in the paint which were obviously caused during the original wear time. The reverse of this area is still in excellent condition. This paint is still factory bright throughout the length of the scabbard and really looks good. The long blade is a real beauty being 34½ inches in length.

    This blade has highest quality nickel-plated and is in full mint condition. Both sides of the blade have beautiful etches which feature the Bavarian slogan, “In Treue Fest”. This slogan of course means, Steadfast With Loyalty”. Below the slogan there is a Bavarian crowned lion guarding the checkered seal of Bavaria. Below this is a tree which is growing oak leaf sprigs. Very attractive design here in absolute mint condition. A real pleasure to gaze upon this fine etch. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the back to back squirrels which are positioned over the firm’s initials, “C.E.”. The original felt blade buffer is in place. An extremely nice conditioned Bavarian sword here.

    Near Mint. $695.00

17. SWDSIMP #33294C Grosser Pattern Imperial Model 89 with Dedicated Damascus Blade – WKC

    This Imperial Model 89 Sword is extremely desirable have a huge Grosser pattern hilt. The hilt is all cast of finest brass and has about 60-70% of the original gilt still in the recesses. The pommel is a flat style having the original owner’s monogram beautifully jeweler engraved into the surfaces. The monogram is “OM”. The initials are beautifully intertwined. The forward bottom portion of the pommel has raised oak leaves running around its circumference. The portion of the hilt below the pommel also features raised oak leaves. The area which retains the grip features a fierce god like head which appears to have a long hanging mustache with heavily slanted eyebrows. It is a great looking ferocious head designed to instill fear in the enemy. Below the head is a floral device. The “P” guard of this example is three tiered and features some fine raised leafing having lots of hand done pebble features in between the leaves. At the lower portion of the basket hilt there is a wonderfully carved Prussian eagle which looks to the viewer’s right. The eagle is equipped with a Prussian crown with cross at the top. On the bird’s breast it is the Kaiser’s monogram, “W” over Roman numeral, “II”. In each talon the bird grasps a sword and scepter respectively. The bird has outstanding detail throughout which has all been hand rendered. The lower portion of the basket hilt is also hand rendered with elaborate floral design. The same is true of the upper portion of the hilt being finished completely to include the reverse of the bird. It is interesting to note there is a shield at the front side of the lower hilt which may have been an area for personalization. Outstanding work and detail throughout this extra quality hilt.

    The ferrule features floral designs which run throughout its circumference. Below the ferrule is a white leather “finger hold” which is still completely intact showing some age cracking but it all remains in place. The grip is a very fine ebony wood being toned downward from right to left. This grip is in totally perfect condition and is tightly wrapped with triple twisted silver wire, the center wire being of larger proportion. Applied to the center obverse of the grip is the Prussian monogram consisting of the intertwined monogram of the Kaiser, “RW” with the Roman numeral, “II” beneath. The monogram features a Prussian crown at its top. Adding to the nice look of this hilt is the original portepee. It is a gold colored bullion having fine texture throughout with twin yellow accent lines which run the length. The slide is a bullion weave and the stem is a gold colored metal type having a crochet-like bullion covering. The lower acorn ball is yarn-like bullion with a black yarn stuffing. Other than age toning this knot is in perfect condition. The scabbard is straight throughout. This scabbard is finished with a fine nickel-plated surface which is 100% throughout. This plating is still as good as the day it was done.

    The scabbard features a flared throat retained by two dome head screws. It is equipped with dual bands and carrying rings as was the style before 1906. A fine scabbard here! As nice as as the outside is on this sword though, the blade has to be where it is at! The blade is a beautiful straight degen style having a permanent maiden hair Damascus pattern. The Damascus is in perfect condition throughout. This blade is heavily etched with beautiful floral decorations. On the obverse the decorations completely surround a two-line dedication. The gilding to the blade work appears to be all there. The blade bears the two-line dedication, “Die Veteranen des Ferndorfer Kreigervereins i./l. Herrn Lieutenant O. Münker / zur freundlichen Erinnerung au die Veternenfeier am 26. Februar 1898”. This presentation basically says that the sword was given in friendship and has a remembrance of the veteran’s club of the town of Ferndorf. The sword was presented to Lt. O. Münker on February 26, 1898. The gilded characters throughout this blade are nearly 100% and are extremely striking. The reverse of the blade is equipped with beautiful raised out depictions which at the ricasso show the figure of Germania being winged and holding a wreath above her head. The backgrounds have 100% blue. The center panel also has nice bluing being about 85% showing a military theme of drums, standartes and swords. The upper panel has 100% blue with a gilded military motif of helmets, shields and the like. The spine of this example features gilded raised oak leaves. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the turn of the century marking featuring a king next to a knight head. Beneath are the initials of the firm, “W.K.&C.”. The original leather washer is in place. This is a wonderful blade to really be enjoyed by an ardent collector. This sword would make a fantastic display resting in a cradle in a collecting room. We did a little research on Lt. Münker and find that he was probably born about 1865 and joined the Prussian army as a reserve officer in 1888. He was with infantry regiment 87 and rose to the rank of Hauptmann. Since there were no wars going on at the time of his career there is nothing that is distinguished about his service. He retired in 1908 and probably was called into World War I but since he was about fifty at that time he probably would not have served in combat. In 1913 he was given the right to wear his reserve officer uniform. No doubt Münker was a distinguished officer in his home town veteran’s league Ferndorfer. Assumedly more research could be done on this officer.

    This is a great opportunity to acquire a fantastic imperial sword having all of the bells and whistles. It is a very substantial piece and would make a great addition to an investment quality imperial collection. This sword is accompanied by the dossier we worked up on the career of this man.

    Near Mint. $10,995.00

18. SWDSIMP #33245 Imperial Grosser Heavy Cavalry Pallasch

    This massive Imperial Heavy Cavalry Sword appears in an untouched state on the outside. The outside does not look to have been cleaned in the last hundred years. The massive hilt is produced of all high quality cast brass and the scabbard appears as though it once had a nickel finish. All of these features though could be easily remedied with cleaning of the hilt and a repaint of the scabbard. The blade though is extremely impressive and has been preserved “as new” all of these years. We will get to that in a moment however. The hilt portion of this sword is equipped with a rounded style plain brass pommel. Below the pommel area the hilt section is extended to accept the grip. This area is also plain. The basket hilt is the three-tiered type immediately identifying this sword as being used by heavy cavalry. These horsemen were generally very large men and wore heavy armor during wartime. The entire hilt of this example has a deep patination from a century of time. It is interesting to note that on the upper portion of the guard there are three notches that have been cut into this surface. Presumably the notched surface aids in keeping the troddel or sword knot in place. The grip is a heavy carved ebony or some other dark hardwood. It has sections which run downward from right to left. The grip is wrapped with triple twisted brass wire which seems to be totally intact. The inner areas of the ribs are filled with years of dirt and residue. The scabbard is a straight type and it is equipped with dual carrying rings as was the style prior to 1906. Some of the original nickel finish still appears in the surfaces. The lower portion of this dent free scabbard has a chape acting as the drag. The throat is nickel-plated and is probably the finish the entire scabbard had at one time.

    Taking the blade out of this scabbard is a real effort as I am not a big enough man to actually withdraw the blade with my arms extended. That is how large this sword is! The massive blade extends almost 37-inches. It must have taken a six foot six tall man to wear a sword of this length. The blade has double fullers which extend nearly to the tip. The blade has a beautiful nickel finish which is still bright and easily in near full mint condition. A spectacular blade here! The first half of the blade is etched with frosted backgrounds on all three sides. The obverse of the blade features a starting etch of floral devices with a panel in the center. Past the panel are more floral devices and a set of crossed standartes. The etch finish with more floraling. However, the panel in the center is outstanding and a real treat to the eye. It has blue backgrounds which appear to still be 100%. Raised out in two lines is the inscription, “Kürassier Anderbrügge / I. Esk.Kür. Regt. von Briesen (Westf.) No4.”. I believe that Anderbrügge is probably the name of the original carrier of this sword and obviously he was from the Westfalia area. His regiment is also there so it should not be too difficult to research this officer. On the reverse of the blade there are more beautiful floral etches with military themes of standartes and spears. In the center area are four blue ribbons which have 100% of the blue background. Etched out of these blue ribbons is the standard remembrance, “Zur / Erinnerung / an Meine / Dienstzeit”. The spine is etched with oak leaves. A remarkable sword here and a weapon that will really stand out in your collection. I personally think that the hilt should be cleaned and that an attempt to clean the scabbard should be made. If any of the nickeling is left to the scabbard so be it. If the nickeling is gone it would pay to take this scabbard to an approved body shop and have it probably repainted. The blade of this example is simply gorgeous and it would be nice to see the sword’s outside compliment its inside. These heavy Cavalry Pallasch’s are extremely desirable. You will not find a larger sword carried by cavalry officers and men who must have been super he-men of their day. Just imagine the sight these mounted cuirassiers on parade mounted on magnificent stallions attired in bright brass armor with lobster tail eagle topped helmets and these very long heavy swords. Quite a spectacle indeed and now is your chance to actually own a piece of this kind of military history reminiscent of the times when men were really men! A similar Pallasch can be seen in the Johnson Wittman Imperial book on page 165.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $2,995.00

19. SWDSIMP #33173C Imperial Prussian Garde Schützen Sword With Damascus Blade

    This Imperial Garde Schützen Sword is the first one of this pattern that I have seen. It is extremely rare and, at first, I thought it was a sword from Meklinberg because of its eagle head top. After studying this sword and looking at the Garde star on the langet, it finally occurred to me that this sword is not from Meklinberg but is rather an officer’s version of the Prussian Oberjäger Hirschsfänger. If you have a copy of the Johnson Wittman Imperial Book, you will see this Hirschsfänger pictured on page 301.

    At any rate, this sword features an outstanding eagle head with open beak which acts to accept the “P” guard. The eagle is equipped with engraved eyes, a fine curved beak with nostrils and nice hand-done feathering running throughout the bird’s head and neck area. It is a most interesting design, as the head of the bird is dipped in the same fashion as the Oebjäger Hirschsfänger. The rest of the sword is all in plain brass to include the duration of the back strap with grip tabs, the “p” guard, the cross guard and the quillon which ends in a teardrop shape. The langet on the obverse is also most interesting as it has a high-quality, deluxe raised out Garde star pinned into the center. The star is highly vaulted, having a silvered background and in the center is the white enamel diameter with order of the black eagle inside. The slogan of the Garde de Korps, “SUUM CUIQUE” is in gold lettering on the white enamel diameter and at the bottom there is a wreath of leaves. This motto in English, of course means “TWO EACH HIS OWN”. Fortunately, despite the large vaulting of this Garde star, all of the enamel is completely intact with no fractures. There is lots of patination that has built up between the star points but this if anything adds great realism to this very rare sword. Although I am not highly versed in Imperial regiments, I do know that the so-called “Garde” regiments were at the beck and call of the Kaiser and normally were composed of elite officers. The Garde Schützen and Jäger regiments were also under the Kaiser’s immediate authority. The man who owned this sword, I am certain, was a highly thought of individual, as officers who served in these regiments were extremely skillful with rifle and hunting techniques. The grip of this example still has 99% of its original sharkskin intact. There are a couple of spots at the center bulbous area where there are nicks in the material but they are very nominal. The grain is also still in the sharkskin and it is tightly wrapped with triple silver twisted wire. There is a portepee on this sword, but I am not certain that it is the original example. The portepee has a bullion surface with lined texture and the inside is covered in red leather. At the bottom is a hinge device which retains the built-in slide and stem as well as the lower bullion ball. There is some blue trim in the stem and slide. This knot appears to be set in place so it is possible it is the original knot for this sword.

    The scabbard is a fine nickel plated example, having two carrying ring construction. There are a couple of minor dings, one in each side, but otherwise the scabbard is nice and straight. The throat is retained by two large flathead screws which appear original to this piece. The plating throughout this scabbard is still in near perfect condition. The blade of this example is a fairly long 34”. It is a Damascus blade having a fine quillback design at the end. The Damascus pattern is a prominent maidenhair. The obverse of the blade is in very nice condition, having a couple of minor pits at the quillback edge and also at the lower edge near the tip. On the reverse, there are more pits toward the end of the blade but again, it is not too bad. The rest of the blade is in nice condition showing little age. The initial portion of the Damascus is etched with floral designs having a gilded finish. These designs are worn slightly and maybe 50% of the gilt remains. The reverse portion of the design has the words “DAMAST/STAHL” and on the obverse “EISEN-HAUER”. These words, of course, mean “THE BEST OF STEEL” and “DAMASCUS STEEL”. The upper portion of the blade is etched with laurel leaves and has the name of the famous distributor to royalty “M. Neumann-Berlin”. The original brown leather washer is in place. If you are a serious Imperial sword collector, I would think that this sword would be a great addition to your historical assemblage.

    Excellent. $6,995.00

20. SWDSIMP #33064 Saxon Infantry Officer’s Lion Head – Carl Eickhorn

    This outstanding Saxon Infantry Officer's Sword is in a nickel finish throughout the hilt and scabbard. This is the model 219 produced by Carl Eickhorn and it is pictured in the Eickhorn imperial catalog on page 112. The sword features a fine lion head with long snout being the type without glass eyes. The workmanship throughout the cat’s head though is outstanding having evidence of good hand enhancing and also some pebble designs to give relief throughout the depiction. The lion’s mane runs to the upper portion of the backstrap where there is a raised floral motif with flowers on the grip tabs. In the center there is a smooth place left for the insertion of initials. The “P” guard is also floral decorated with raised out large leaves. In the center there is a floral surrounded Saxon crest. The crest has the appearance of a “beehive”. The ferrule is nicely done having oak leaf raised depictions. The grip is a celluloid over carved wood. This grip is still in perfect condition and it is tightly wrapped with triple twisted wire, the center being of larger proportion. At the top of the “P” guard is a slot which is probably left for the insertion of a portepee. The obverse langet features a shield like device in the center, the same as is shown in the catalog. The reverse also has a similar shield. The quillon ends with a roaring lion. This hilt would clean up nicely as it only shows patination.

    The same is true of the nickel-plated scabbard. This scabbard is straight throughout and has a fixed carrying ring. All of the plating still appears to be there and in easily cleanable condition. The choice long blade is just about 34 inches in length. It has high quality nickel plating and is mirror bright throughout. There are some very tiny signs of age here and there but the blade still easily grades in near full mint condition. It is interesting to note that the Carl Eickhorn logo used from 1933 through 1935 is stamped on the reverse ricasso. It features a set of small double ovals which contain the firm’s name and Solingen location. Inside is a seated squirrel. The original brown leather buffer is in place. It is a known fact that lost or destroyed imperial swords could be repurchased through WKC or Eickhorn at any time as these models were still available. A great example here of a rarely seen sword. This sword comes direct from the veteran family.

    Excellent Plus. $895.00

21. SWDSIMP #33143 Saxon Cavalry NCO Sword - F.W. Höller

    This large Saxon Cavalry NCO Sword looks like it may have been made for more than just dress occasions. It is of large proportion and certainly would take a bit of sword play should the need arise. I am fairly certain it is Saxon because of the design of the bake-o-lite grip. It appears the grip and pommel appear identical to a model 89 sword shown in the WKC catalog as model number 142. This sword though is not a model 89 but appears to have a standard Cavalry style “D” guard. The hilt is all of steel construction being plain throughout. The pommel has a flat top with a spanner like device which retains the tang. The “D” guard goes around through the crossguard and ends in a teardrop shape. The grip is a very large Bakelite type which has a flare out right below the ribbed area. This seems to be the case with other Saxon swords thus my identification. If I am wrong I’m sure somebody out there will correct me. The Bakelite grip is in perfect condition and is retained by rivet and spanner hardware. The scabbard is a matching steel finish and other than a couple of very minor carrying dings on both sides toward the bottom the scabbard remains in good condition. It is the style that has a fixed carrying ring.

    The blade is a very large proportion no nonsense type. It is equipped with a quillback end and is finished in a matte polish. The blade shows very little age and is in first class condition throughout. This curved blade measures just over 31 inches and easily grades in near mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped in an arch shape with the manufacturer’s name, “F.W. Höller” and beneath is the town of “Solingen”. The original black leather washer is in place. A nice fighting style sword here.

    Excellent Plus Plus $495.00

22. SWDSIMP #31475 Imperial Artillery NCO Sword

    This Imperial Artillery NCO Sword has a fairly large plain nickel hilt. The hilt has good plating throughout showing only nominal age and some usage signs. The grip is a wood base being covered with sharkskin. The sharkskin is a blue purple color and is in perfect condition with no rot. This sharkskin is wrapped with triple twisted brass wire, the center being slightly larger. The scabbard of this example is straight throughout. It does show quite a bit of wear and age though to the original black paint and the paint probably rates at about 40-50%. The areas where the paint are missing though has toned nicely from age and still look good. The sword is equipped with a stationary carrying ring typical of NCO types.

    The blade of this example though is extremely impressive. It is a large proportion type which still is in near full mint condition. It is triple etched and has blue panels on both sides. The obverse blade has typical military scenes at the bottom with a horses head at the upper portion and finished off with rose and floral devices. In the center is a choice blue panel which features the name of this artillery regiment, “Triersches Feld Artill. Regt. No44”. Obviously this sword comes from Trier and was worn by a field artillery man. On the reverse there are more etched military scenes and in the center is a highly detailed blue background panel which features a canon on a casson. The casson is being pulled by three pairs of horses with mounted riders on three of the horses. Leading the casson parade are two other mounted officers. Sitting on the casson are five artillery men and the detail is so clear it is easy to see the ball on the top of their Pickelhaub. The detail to the canon, spoked wheels, horse reins, saddles and men’s uniforms is spectacular and hard to imagine how this could have been accomplished with the use of acid. The spine of the blade has a laurel leaf motif. A most impressive example of a plain Jane sword on the outside and something really great to look at on the inside.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1295.00

23. SWDSIMP #31477 Imperial Prussian Miner's Saber

    This beautiful saber is composed of gilded brass, plain fittings throughout. The hilt has a completely smooth pommel, backstrap, "P" guard and teardrop quillon. The only detail on the entire hilt is the application of an applied highly detailed Prussian crown resting over a pair of crossed hammers. The pins which retain these insignia are pushed through the langet and can be seen from the opposite side. The gilding throughout this hilt is still fairly good and has an almost coppery look about it. The gilding is about 85%. The grip itself is a beautiful finely grained ray skin. This ray skin is in perfect condition having a purple blue color. The grip is wrapped with triple silver twisted wire, the center being slightly thicker.

    The scabbard shell is an all-leather example, which has decorative lines on the edges of the obverse and reverse and it is sewn-up the rear. This leather shows quite a bit of age, however, it is still sound and is all together. The shell has three mountings which are also plain gilded brass being the same as the hilt. These mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the leather. The lower mount has a built-in in chape fitting. The upper mounts and center are equipped each with one carrying ring. These mounts are staple held and the staple is missing from the top example. It enables the viewer to see that the number beneath the staples is, "14".

    The blade of this saberis a 32 inch long example having triple etched motif. The etchings are floral designs which have standard military themes. There are drums, backpacks, horns, shields, etc., all visible in these etch designs, which are further mixed with floraling. The spine has laurel leaves raised- out. This blade shows only nominal age, but still is bright and easily rates at excellent plus. I'm sure this blade would clean up further with a little effort. Coal Miner's dress swords are not seen too frequently. This example is identical to the one shown on page 234 of the Johnson/Wittman Imperial Book. A difficult pattern to find.

    Excellent Plus. $1195.00

24. SWDSIMP #31469 Triple-Etched Artillery Officer's Lion Head Sword - Paul Weyersberg

    This is a magnificent Lionhead Saber featuring the best of materials. I am not sure of the vintage, but most likely it is Weimar period, although it could be 3rd Reich, as the Weyersberg trademark is the same as used during the 1930s. The sword hilt is a standard sized example, being fire-gilded brass. The gilding is nearly all there, having that beautiful contrast between the bright points and the muted background areas. The gild is worn only on the edges, rating at about 98%. The lionhead is the traditional German style with the long snout. His whiskers, brow, and nose all reflect hand done engraving. The cat has sparkling fire red faceted glass eyes. The mane flows down the backstrap, becoming floral patterns afterward. The center area has an oval point meant for a monogram addition. The "P" guard has fantastic raised-out oak leaves, with a random pebble pattern in the backgrounding. This area has that awesome muted gild work; beautiful. Even the ferrule is a work of art, having raised leaves and perfect gild work. The crossguard and langet areas have added floral designs deeply carved into the edges and the quillon ends with another detailed lionhead. The langet itself is shield-like, portraying a detailed set of crossed cannon, indicating the original owner was an artilleryman. The grip of this saber is a fine purple-blue sharkskin, being in perfect condition. The sharkskin grip is in excellent condition, being tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. One of the best hilts you will see.

    The impressive blade is a triple etched variety. The obverse features a frosted panel of floral decoration with a center area portraying crossed swords. The reverse has the same motif floral designs with a center area of crossed cannon, drums, standards, etc. The frosted backgrounds are 100%, highlighting the bright work of the etches. The spine is etched with a panel of laurel leafing. This blade is in full mint condition, measuring 33 inches in length. The reverse ricasso is etched with the double oval trademark. The ovals trap the name and location of the company, "Paul Weyersberg, Solingen". Inside, is the sword flanked with wheat shafts. The scabbard is straight but for a tiny kink dent toward the lower rear - it is nothing. The black scabbard paint has quite a bit of age in the surfaces on both sides - guess we should be thankful the scabbard was here, as whatever caused the scabbard to develop rust, could have done the same to the blade were it not for this protective shell. The scabbard still does not look too bad, but compared to the condition of this fine saber, it really should be re-painted. Anyhow, a beautiful thing here and a great display piece to lay on a set of cradles. Good value here.

    Near Mint. $1,495.00

25. SWDSIMP #31468 Weimar Fire Official's Saber and Portepee - Carl Eickhorn

    This fine saber is in untouched condition. It is a nickel example having plain style hilt. The nickel finish is all there, having a desirable dull untouched patination. Fine look here. The grip is a purple-blue color sharkskin being in perfect condition. The grip is wrapped with twisted triple brass wire, the center wire being slightly larger. There is a rarely seen portepee tied about the hilt. This troddel is a most beautiful gold textured bullion strapping, having single lines of red running down both edges. The gold bullion slide and stem are highlighted with "V" design of red thread. The lower round ball is a bullion yarn-like thread. The lower insert has a pink/red felt insert being in perfect condition. The scabbard is a black leather shell variety. The leather shows some usage, but is in excellent condition, having dual accent lines which run down the edges of both sides. The leather shell is fitted with matching patinated nickel mounts. These mounts have scalloped edges where they meet the scabbard, and as per the fire motif established over a century, they are dual line decorated on the surfaces. The three mounts are retained with staples in the usual manner. There are numbers beneath the staples. The upper and center mounts contain carrying rings.

    The 31½ inch curved blade is a beauty, being triple-etched. The blade is a wider style with fuller. The etching consists of floral panels at the beginning areas and military themes at the endings. The center areas portray hooks and ladders, hoses, axes, helmets and the like. This blade is in mint condition. The spine is etched with laurel leaves. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the Carl Eickhorn trademark used during the late 1920s and early 1930s. It is an oval single circle, having a squirrel in the center over the initials, "C.E". This sword would have been carried into the Third Reich period. An excellent opportunity to acquire a fairly rare example.

    Uncleaned Near Mint. $995.00

26.  SWDSIMP #31440 Early Naval Saber - Julius Voos

    This saber, at first glance, has the look of an early German example coming from the 1840s or 1850s. It may well be, or it also could have been made in Germany for export to the French navy. I am not sure, but it is a very rare early pattern and should be desirable for collectors of this vintage. The sword is a lionhead variety being of brass construction throughout. The lionhead has an upward pointing open jaw and there has been hand-enhancement to display teeth on this cat. His eyes have been chiseled outward and the eyelids have hand detail to give relief to the depiction. The cat's mane is nicely done flowing down the entire length of the backstrap. There is a round style pommel crown-like device at the top of the lion's head. The tang apparently pierces this device and is peened over. The "D" guard is in the traditional naval design and the clamshell at the bottom is the stationary type depicting a fouled-anchor within an oval. This sword looks nearly identical to the styles we see worn by German officers in the 1850s and 1860s. The back langet is a folding variety which is holed to lock over a male stem on the reverse upper scabbard fitting. There is a teardrop quillon that flows outward from the stationary clamshell. The grip of the example is a deeply toned golden ivory or it is possible it is also bone. This grip is in perfect condition throughout and is nicely ribbed having triple brass wire wrap. This brass wire wrap is all there and is twisted in the center.

    The scabbard shell appears to have a metal base and it is covered with black leather. This leather is sewn up the rear. It has a look of the French about it, as the Germans did not normally use steel bases on their naval sabers. The fittings are the traditional three brass mount variety. These fittings are engraved throughout and the engraving looks to have been done by hand. It features a series of square like figures with an anchor depiction at the upper portion of the top mount. These mounts have points where they meet the leather. The upper two mounts are equipped with eyelets and carrying rings. The engraved details are done on both sides.

    The blade is a 29½ inch saber style. It is nickel-plated and actually is still quite bright. There are signs of a little old sharpening on it, but overall, this blade is still in pretty good shape. It is triple etched having war type themes on both sides. The themes consist of swords, daggers, cannons, spiked helmets and curass breast plates which appear very dramatic looking. Both sides have similar motif. The spine is etched with laurel leaves, but also has the producer, "Julius Voos Fabrique d'armes Solingen". You'll note that the producer is listed in the French language indicating it is possible this sword was produced in Germany for use of the French military. Either way, it is a very rare naval sword as there are not many naval patterns existing from this period. This sword shows some age and overall usage, but it is what it is, and could be a real key to a proper Imperial Naval collection.

    Excellent. $1495.00

27.  SWDSIMP #31439 Imperial Artillery Saber with Blue Panel - Karl Kaiser

    The hilt of this Imperial Artillery saber is a fairly large size and is in plain nickel finish. It features a traditional hilt design with pommel back strap, "P" guard, and cross guard with langet. The upper part of the "P" guard has a slot cut into it which may have been for placement of a portepee. The nickel throughout shows some minor age in the surfaces, but there is no lifting and the nickeling is still really at 100%. The grip is a fine blue-purple sharkskin. The sharkskin still mostly retains its original coloring. It is still in good shape with no breaks or problems. The grip is tightly wrapped with dual twisted silver wire.

    The blade is a most impressive example. It is one of the larger proportioned blades and it measures thirty-three inches in length. This saber blade has fine nickel plated surfaces throughout and remains in near full mint condition. The first half of the blade is triple etched. The obverse has a most beautiful blue panel. It starts out with a small panel with frosted background having a floral device and ends with a slightly longer frosted panel depicting war implements such as cross cannons, swords, etc. In the center, the name and location of the regiment is raised out and nickel plated with a choice blue background. It reads “Feldartillerie..Regt.v.Peucker(Schles.) No6.”. This regiment is the Field Artillery Van Peucker Regiment No. 6 from Silesia, which is now a part of Poland. This regiment was originally raised in 1808 and is garrisoned in the City of Breslau. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the Colonel Kaiser trademark having a crown over crossed swords with the letters "CKCO" interspersed. The reverse blade has a long frosted panel, but does not have a blue background. The frosting is 100%. It depicts more military themes familiar to most collectors. The spine has a laurel leaf design etched into its surface areas. There is a intact red felt buffer protecting this impressive blade. The scabbard is in fairly good shape, but does need a paint job. The paint is about 80% on it and it shows substantial scratching and carrying time. There are no bad dents or anything, so it could be repainted most satisfactorily. The carrying ring is the type that is fixed. A nice looking example here which will really display well in a collection room.

    Excellent Plus, Plus. $1,195.00

28.  SWDSIMP #31434 Imperial Jawless Artillery Lion Head Sword

    This Imperial Lion Head Sword is illustrated in the Angolia sword book on Page 368. The hilt has good brass base throughout. It depicts a lion head with a jawless design. There are no glass eyes in this cat. He does have good detail, though, to his whiskers, brow and mane which flows backward. The back spine has a floral detailing around the center. The "P" guard has a shield device in the center with three swords sticking out of the top of it. The cross guard features a pebbled background and ends in a floral device holding a ball. The reverse langet features a blank shield with floral wreath around it. The obverse has raised out crossed cannons with laurel leaves. This depiction shows some wear and has a nice yellow color to its brass base. There may still be gilding throughout which gives it this look. The grip appears to be a sharkskin type and it is in fairly good condition, covering at 100%. This grip is wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. There is also an old leather portepee, which is still attached to the hilt. The portepee appears to have been a black color at one time, but it shows age now and it is hard to say its original color. The scabbard is a straight example and reflects good nickel plating. The nickel does not look to have been cleaned in years, but I am sure it would come up nice, as there is no rust and no material missing. The scabbard is fitted with dual ring carriage, indicating this sword was worn prior to 1906. It is the same as is shown on Page 68.

    The blade is a triple-etched 32 inch long example. This blade is in excellent condition. It is not as bright as some I have seen, but I believe it is meant to have this kind of a matte finish. Both sides of the blade depict military themes. There are panels mixed with armor, standartes, drums, spears, etc. The blade appears to be in near full mint condition. The obverse ricasso has the side by side king and knight logo used by the W. K. & C. firm around the turn of the last century. Not a bad sword here, which, with a little effort, will clean up to be really nice.

    Excellent Plus. $695.00

29. SWDSIMP #30942 Baden NCO Drill Sergeant's Sword with Whistle

    This NCO Dove Head sword has the standard plain fittings throughout and it is an all brass hilt. The hilt is in good condition and if it had any fire gild on it originally it is mostly gone now. The grip is a nice looking sharkskin. There are two ribs that have triple wire wrapping at the bottom and the rest of the ribs have a single wire. I assume that the other two wires are missing from this grip but it does not look as though anything is missing however. We also touched it up to give it its original blue purple look. The thing that is really interesting about this hilt is that built into the quillon end is a brass whistle. This whistle almost matches the brass of the hilt itself but it does catch the eye as it is recognizable as something that we have not seen in the past. This whistle still works well and has a very high, shrill tone to it. To my way of thinking the only reason for this whistle would be for use by a drill sergeant or a parade sergeant. The whistle is simply blown by raising the reverse hilt to the lips. This would have been something that a drill sergeant could have easily done during parade exercises. The scabbard of this example is straight throughout except for a tiny ding on the obverse position just below where the langet rests.

    The scabbard has its original black paint which shows some age but for the most part is still all there and would clean up pretty nice if someone wanted to work on it with some wax. The blade on this example is a triple etched variety having military scenes. This is how I know the sword comes from Baden as on the obverse etch in the center there is a distinctive Baden coat of arms. The rest of the etchings are just the usual military types with standartes, drums, cross canons, etc. The etchings are all fairly light but are still discernable. On the area just beyond the ricasso the word “Iesenhauer” is raised out which is an indication that the blade was made of “good steel”. Looking below the obverse langet the sword is stamped with the side by side king and knighthead logo which was used by WKC at the turn of the last century. Below the symbols is the initials of the factory “W.K. & C.”.

    This blade also has a little bit of old sharpening but it is hard to see. The blade is 33 inches long and is also of a quill back design. Overall this blade grades at about excellent. If you are an imperial collector I would think that this sword would have to go into your grouping. I found it irresistible and had to buy it. I hope someone also will buy it from me as my staff is tired of hearing me blowing this whistle all the time. A pretty interesting sword here.

    Excellent. $595.00

30. SWDSIMP #30635 Model 1889 Infantry Degen from Mecklenberg

    This Model 1889 Infantry Degen looks like the conventional nickel type having a black Bakelite grip, until the viewer studies the depiction on the hand guard. This sword comes from the small state of Mecklenberg–Schwern. Before we get to the crest, we will describe the rest of the sword. The nickel mounts are the NCO type, having a “D” guard with slot in the center area left for a troddel. The clamshell device is spring loaded and folds. The upper pommel is the flat style, having a steel spanner-style screw on the top. The grip is the black bakelite, having 9 ribs. There is a crack in the bakelite grip that does extend around the grip, and also a couple of small chips in the fourth rib in the reverse. But none of this really shows from the front and does not affect the sword really, as this grip is not going anywhere. It is tightly held by the spanner on top of the pommel. The nickel parts throughout the sword are lined decorated. Now for the crest area. It shows a crown over a slightly ovaled circle which is broken into six parts. Four of the parts have a crown over an Iron Cross, a griffon, an arm, but the two most prominent figures that are easy for the collector to recognize are the heads of a cow at the upper and lower segments of this crossguard. The reason that the cow image is shown in the crest is because of this animal’s importance to this area of Germany. This is the area where the Holstein cow comes from, and of course, it is also a big milk producer in America. Mecklinberg items are very seldom seen as this is a relatively small state, and therefore, did not have a large population compared to the state of Prussia. The overall hilt is in good shape, despite the crack at the grip.

    The blade of this example is 32½ inches long. It is a state degen type and it is ended as triple etched. The obverse has a beginning etch scene of military implements featuring a standarte, sword, trumpet, and also a fur-style Hussar’s cap. On the end of the etch there is a fully reined horse head, and then there are some flowers that look like roses. But in the center of the blade is a large panel with blue background. It is raised-out, “1.Grossh.Mecklbg.Drag.Regt.No 17.” This blade was owned by an NCO member of the 1st Grand Ducal Mecklinberg Dragoon Regiment No. 17. This regiment was garrisoned in the town of Ludwigslust, and was raised way back in 1819. This blade still has pretty good brightness showing a little mild age, but certainly rating in excellent condition. The blue backgrounds on the etch are still fairly good, rating at maybe 75% to 80%. Just passed this etch is a faded ghost etch. "F. Gerneke". This etch is most likely the owners last name and accompanied with another horsehead. The reverse blade is also etched and has a blue panel. The beginning of the etch features a couple of roses, and towards the end pattern are more roses and war implements that appear to be an uhlan pickelhaube positioned over crossed swords, standartes, and a trumpet. The blue panel on this side, though, has a charging cavalry with the officer in front having his sword straight out as the horses gallop trailing the dress plumes of the men behind the officer. There are about nine soldiers in this horse charge. They are running past a small village which is very detailed with chimneys, trees, and steps. Just below the charging cavalry is a beautiful crown, which no doubt represents the Duke of Mecklenberg, and below the crown is a cipher which appears to be an “F” and “W”, over the Roman numeral “III”. I think that this would stand for Friedrich Wilhelm, who was the Duke of Mecklenberg from 1860 through 1904. This sword appears to me as though it is a vintage of about the turn of the last century, so this would fit pretty good. The spine of this blade is etched with oak or laurel style leaves. The scabbard is straight throughout and does have the original paint. The paint shows a lot of age and a lot of rust here and there, but even still, if it were compounded and waxed, I think it would come up pretty nice. The scabbard is straight throughout and has the fixed in-place-style ring which is attached to a “U” bracket. There is a small piece of leather still affixed to the ring. A very rare sword here, and if you are collecting Model 89s, this would be a very very difficult piece to find. I was lucky enough to acquire this example from the family that brought it home.

    Excellent. $1,195.00

31. SWDSIMP #30073 Imperial Chevauxlager Cavalry Sword

    This Chevauxlager Cavalary sword is a basket hilt type having a stationary guard. The hilt is of nickel-plated finish and although it shows some mild age it appears that the plating is still quite good beneath the patination. The upper pommel area is a flat style cap with a round spanner like device which retains the tang. The D-guard and basket are a one piece unit. The basket comes into three sections and at the center area it features a circular form having a standard Bavarian lion with a sword in his right paw and he is retaining a checkered shield of Bavaria in his left paw. The lion retains the Bavarian crown on his head. The basket design has accent lines carved into its borders. The grip of this example is black Bakelite and the ribs are shaped to form a fine hand hold with a flared area at the lower portion. The Bakelite is in perfect condition.

    The triple etched blade of this example is about 32 inches in length. It is a straight blade making this piece officially a degen. The obverse panel is quite nicely portrayed having raised out floral designs at the beginning and the end and then there is a flanking design having a Bavarian artillery spiked helmet positioned over crossed swords at the bottom and at the top there is the head of a horse. In the center are raised out is “K.D.6.Chev.Regt.Prinz Albrecht v.Peussen.”. This designates that the sword’s owner was a member of the Bavarian king’s six Chevaulager Regiment which was honorary named after Prinz Albrecht of Prussia. There were only eight Bavarian Chevaulager regiments and this particular regiment was formed in 1803 and was garrisoned in Bayreuth. The reverse of the blade also has a fine panel which features floral designs at the beginning and the ends and there are also flanking designs with a Bavarian Ulan helmet over crossed swords at the top area and a Bavarian dress plume helmet positioned over war implements at the bottom. In the center there are some nice designs with an additional Bavarian lion with checkered shield and the motto of Bavaria in a ribbon, “In. Treue Fest.”. The spine of the blade is also etched with laurel leaves. This blade is nice and bright having all of the frostings in the backgrounds of the nickel-plated raised features. This blade easily rates in near mint condition. Although it is unmarked it is buffered by a black leather washer. The scabbard of this example is a blued finish type and it is perfectly straight throughout. It has a single ring permanently positioned for carry, an indication that the sword was produced after 1906. The scabbard shows only mild age but still has all of its blue finish. A very nice piece here and not a common imperial sword.

    Excellent Plus. $795.00

32. SWDSIMP #29057C Prussian Imperial Kindersabel

    This kindersabel is in the style of a Model 89 Infantry Officer’s degen. The hilt is of all gilded brass. It features the curved pommel style with flat cap and then the stationary basket has three tiers which end with a Prussian crowned eagle which grasps a sword and a scepter in each talon respectively. Raised out of the bird’s breast is the cipher, “WRII”, which of couse means Wilhelm Welks II. The grip of this example is a sharkskin and it is a fine blue color being in perfect condition. This sharkskin grip is wrapped in triple twisted silver wire, the center being larger and twisted opposite. This fine hilt is also equipped with its original portepee. This portepee is down to scale and it features a silver textured bullion strapping with a black line in the center. The lower ball is ovaled and has cat’s anus style black stuffing. This hilt is identical to the large counterpart just being of smaller proportion for probably an eight to twelve year old child. The same hilt design appears on page 257 of the Johnson Wittman Imperial Book. This entire sword length within the scabbard is 28 inches overall.

    The blade of this example is 24 inches long. It has a blunted tip because it was used by children and it is entirely nickel-plated. It is double etched and has the original owner’s name within a panel on the center obverse. It is raised out, “Rudi Delins.”. The blade is still in mint condition and has fantastic frosted backgrounds. Flanking the personalization panel on the left are beautiful floral designs. On the right there is a fairytale like scene depicting a knight on horseback riding through a village. On top is a neat looking crest having knight’s armor with a cross over the breast area. The ricasso is deeply stamped with the knight’s head logo indicating this sword was produced by the WKC firm. On the reverse there are more floral designs flanking a large center panel. Here there are two knights shown jousting at each other. They are depicted on horseback with lances and medieval clothing. An outstanding blade here. It is accompanied by a original painted scabbard in excellent condition. A wonderful sword here for the son of a militaristic officer father.

    Excellent Plus. $995.00

33. SWDSIMP #29058C Bavarian Kindersabel

    This kindersabel is for a pre-teen boy. Overall, it measures about 28 inches in length. The hilt is in the design of a Model 89 Cavalry degen which is an NCO model. Apparently, the child that carried this kindersabel was the son of a top sergeant in the Bavarian Imperial Army. The hilt is all done in nickel plated steel base having the traditional design of the Model 89. The cap is a flat type and the basket hilt has 3 tiers which culminate at the lower end and the center area features in a circle the Bavarian logo. This consists of a pierced standing lion with crown holding a checkered seal in his left talon and an upward pointing sword in his right. The detail is quite good to this lion, all being hand finished. The grip, instead of being Bakelite like most of the large counterparts, appears to be a black ebony wood. It is nicely carved for the grip of a child and has 7 ribs. The blade of this example measures about 23 inches. It is a steel base having a blunted tip and nickel plated finish. The finish shows age in the surfaces and quite a bit of graying. There is a knighthead logo which is the “no neck” variety, putting the vintage of this sword at about before the turn of the century. The scabbard is made up of a leather composition shell. It is a brown color and is sewn on one side. The shell is fitted with brass mounts which are contained with screws in the reverse. These mounts are basically plain. A good representation of a child’s kindersabel.

    Excellent. $295.00

34. SWDSIMP #28445R Imperial "Grosser" Sized Prussian M89 Basket Hilt Degen - Weirberg and Company

    This M-89 basket hilt is a very large size degen. It appears to be identical to the piece which is shown in the Angolia sword book on Page 380. The pommel is a relatively square-like cap having a spanner device on type, which retains the tang of the blade. From the pommel is a large basket hilt extension. The basket has three tiers, and in the center, it features a Prussian eagle. The assembly is made of a steel base having bright nickel-plated surfaces. There is minor age in the surfaces but for the most part it is all there and looks good being slightly glitzy. The grip is made of an ebony wood. This ebony is in perfect condition and it is retained with two rivet and spanner hardware devices, which are plated in matching nickel. The ebony grip has a handhold consisting of ten ribs.

    The straight blade of this example is a large proportion and is 33 inches in length. It has a quill back design on the end. The blade remains nice and bright and is in a near mint condition. This blade has a slab side with single edge and fairly thick spine. The obverse ricasso is stamped with the maker name and location, "Weyersberg and Company Solingen." The original black leather washer is in place. The scabbard is also a nickel-plated version. The plating is still excellent, but unfortunately there is quite a bit of denting throughout the surfaces. This is kind of a shame, especially since the plating is still so nice. There are some property stampings on the reverse area below the throat. They appear to be a stylized capital letter "R" and then a standard capital letter "E" and then a Roman numeral for "7" and then a capital letter "A" after that. Beneath these numbers is a smaller stamping, "67". And above, another smaller stamping "12". There is a chain and hook assembly attached to the stationary ring. Since this assembly is marked "France" I do not think it is original to this sword. This is a very large degen and also has a good length. Quite impressive throughout.

    Excellent Plus. $695.00