I feel this section of my catalog represents the best hobby bargains today. For almost all collectors are aware swords such as the Field Marshall Series and SS/Police degens have experienced dramatic price escalation in recent years. It is almost a forgone conclusion, that "normal" Army and Luftwaffe swords have to be close behind. The new Angolia sword book has also done much to popularize the regular sword market, as for the first time, collectors are now able to view a "like example" in a book - the value of this to collectors is obvious. These swords reflect every bit of the quality and workmanship we enjoy with other edged weapons - yet, the prices, in my opinion, are still quite reasonable.
SWDSOTH3 - 011 - 26008 - ARMY PANTHER HEAD SABER - F.W. HÖLLER
This Army saber is about as nice as you will see them. The hilt is a heavy solid brass type, and it is fire-gilded with almost 100% coverage. This fire gilding is quite beautiful throughout, really giving a regal appearance to this piece. This sword is the Höller model # 22, and is the same as the example shown on Page 93 of the Angolia book at the top. This feline is fit with blood-red faceted eyes. His head has been hand-enhanced around the lower jaw, the whiskers, and the brow and around the flowing mane, down the back strap. The rest of the back strap features beautifully done oak leaf sprigs which checkered acorns, heavy veining. There is hand pebbling done in the plain areas. The “P” guard has the same type of outstanding work with much hand-enhancing and pebbling throughout the depiction. The cross guard features a fine open-winged eagle which looks to the viewer’s left. This eagle has good detail to his eye, beak, breast feathering, talons, wreath and raised swastika. To either side of the eagle’s legs are pebbled areas which have raised out diamonds. The black celluloid-over-wood grip is in place and is in perfect condition. This shiny grip is triple-wrapped with twisted brass wire, the center being larger. The ferrule also depicts overlapping oak leaves with lots of hand work. An outstanding hilt here! The scabbard of this example is nice and straight, having good original black paint. This paint does show quite a bit of spidering in the surfaces, but I believe with a little bit of wax and some rubbing, it could really be brought out to look at least in near mint condition. The paint is all there. The blade is an outstanding 32.5 inch long example. This blade has been quality nickel plated and has a mirror mint finish. This beautiful mint blade is marked on the reverse ricasso with the double ovals which enclose the firm’s name and location, “F.W. Höller Solingen”. Inside is the thermometer with too many digits to count. The leather washer is in place. A very fine Panther Head Saber here. Mint Minus. $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 012 -26150C - ARMY OFFICER’S DOVE HEAD WITH MONOGRAM - WKC
This Army Officer’s Dove Head sword is the same as is shown in the Angolia sword book on Page 139, top. It is an aluminum sword that has a beautiful tone to its fire gilding. This gilding is a darker, richer look than we normally see. It is not the same as the type we see on the Voos and the Clemen & Jung types, as it has a more intense finish. It has a great look to it and rates about 99% over the fine cast aluminum base. This sword has oak leaf detail throughout its pommel, ferrule and “D” guard. The tab area and the relating back strap have a cloverleaf-like device raised out. The cross guard features a very stubby-winged Political style eagle with a head pointing to the viewer’s right. This eagle has good detail to his eye, breast feathering, wreath and raised swastika. The little stubby wings make it look very similar to the eagle which would decorate a Political Leader’s cap. The areas next to the bird’s legs and wreath have all been hand-stippled. The reverse of the langet has a raised out shield-like device with little flowers running around its perimeter. In the center are intertwined initials professionally rendered. They are “Ho”. The letters are double-scribed and the “o” letter has shading in it to indicate that this is the surname of the original carrier. The grip is a black celluloid over wood base. The celluloid is in perfect condition and is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire. The wire is twisted throughout and the center example is larger and twisted opposite for effect. A seldom seen hilt here, in outstanding condition. The accompanying scabbard is nice and straight throughout and has fantastic original paint. This paint is in perfect condition, still having its original luster. This scabbard is in near full mint condition. The blade is a fine, 32 inch long example. It is nice and bright, having fine nickel plating. The surfaces show just the slightest bit of age, but not enough to take away from its mint rating. This blade is stamped with the knight head trademark on the obverse, having the firm’s initials below, “WKC”. The new-like leather blade buffer is in place. A very fine sword here that is in top notch condition and is a seldom seen model. It is also interesting to note that the scabbard has the larger carrying ring that we often see on WKC made sabers. Mint Minus. $1,095.00
SWDSOTH3 - 013 -26148C - ARMY PANTHER HEAD SWORD - NO MAKER (TIGER) This Army Panther Head is the same as the example shown in the Angolia book on Page 123. Although it is shown as a Tiger designated piece, I think that this motif was “generic” and could be used by other sword producers. This example is a beauty, being an all brass base. The hilt has been nicely fire gilded, and it is thinning only slightly and only on the high areas. This fire gilt, though, still appears to be at least 95%. The depiction portrays a fine panther head cat having excellent hand-enhancing to the area below the mouth, the whiskers, the brows, the jowls and the mane hair running backward. The rest of the back strap is composed of raised out oak leaves and acorns. This also matches the “D” ring motif. The cat is fitted with two blood-red glass eyes. The ferrule has oak leaves and the cross guard has an open-winged eagle which looks to the viewer’s left. This bird has fine detail to his head, breast feathering, wing feathering, wreath and raised out mobile swastika. The areas next to the bird depict raised out dots and the quillon ends in a swirl. The grip is a black celluloid-over-wood in perfect condition. This grip is wrapped with triple brass twisted wire, the center being twisted opposite for effect. A fine-conditioned hilt here! The scabbard is also outstanding, being straight throughout. The scabbard has very fine, original paint, that remains completely factory bright and easily in a near mint state. A fine scabbard here! The blade is also just as nice as the rest of the piece. It features a 32 inch long example having quality nickel plated surfaces. The nickeling is mirror bright and is in perfect condition, easily rating mint. The brown leather blade buffer is in place. A very fine panther head saber here. Near Mint. $795.00
SWDSOTH3 - 014 -26149C - ARMY DOVE HEAD SWORD WITH MONOGRAM - ANTON WINGEN, JR.
This Army sword is a brass base dove head and it is in choice condition, having a fine fire gilt plating. The fire gilding is completely even across the hilt and looks to be all there. It is more of a muted effect than it is a bright, having lots of quiet class to its finish. This sword type, I believe, is really a generic variety but, in this case, it was used by Anton Wingen and a similar sword with the same cross guard but with a panther head shows on Page 134 of the Angolia book, lower. The motif throughout the hilt consists of raised out oak leaves with acorns. This holds true throughout the pommel, back strap, grip tabs, “D” guard and ferrule. The cross guard features an eagle looking to the viewer’s left with open wings, checkered breast feathering, good wreath detail and raised out mobile swastika. To the left and right of the bird are raised out dot patterns and the quillon ends in a swirl. The reverse langet has a shield device raised out with stippling around its borders. In the shield are the original owner’s professionally engraved monogram letters. They are “om”. The “o” is over top of the “m” and slightly to the right. These letters are double-scribed and have beautiful shading in the open center areas. They are definitely professionally done jeweler engravings. The celluloid grip is in good condition throughout, having just one tiny hairliner at the top area. The celluloid grip is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. The scabbard is one of the best you will see. It is completely straight and has outstanding original black paint. This black painted surface still has its original luster and it has been done in a rather muted effect, however. This scabbard is in mint condition. The 32.5 inch blade has a quality nickel plated surface. It is completely mirror bright throughout and easily rates in full mint condition. The reverse ricasso features the little man with armor having the firm’s name and location over and under it, “Anton Wingen, Jr. Solingen”. The original new-like brown leather washer is in place. A fine example here. Near Mint. $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 017 -26147C - EXTREMELY LONG CALVARY NCO SABER WITH NICKEL SCABBARD - NO MAKER
This all-nickel Calvary saber is of huge dimension length. The long curved saber blade actually measures 37 inches! The largest blade which was offered by the Eickhorn firm was only 35 inches so, obviously, this was a custom made piece. Because of the fact that it comes in a nickel scabbard also, I feel that it was probably used on a mounted horse, and most likely was carried by the NCO who was in charge of a parade formation. This is quite a sword here! The hilt is the traditional standard plain NCO type. It features a smooth pommel and back strap with smooth “P” guard, langet and quillon areas. The nickel plating throughout is in choice mint condition with absolutely no problems or scratching. The grip is a wood base with fine celluloid covering. This black celluloid is in perfect condition, having a pleasing sheen to the surfaces. It is tightly wrapped with single twisted nickel wire. The scabbard, as stated above, is completely nickel plated. It is in straight condition with no problems anywhere, and the plating is totally perfect throughout. This scabbard has one ring carriage with the standard throat having two matching nickel side screws. The length of it makes it seem to go on forever when studied. I do not believe I have ever seen a scabbard this long. The accompanying blade is just as impressive, having the typical curved shape of the Calvary saber. It is a beautiful thing, having high quality nickel plating. It is not marked and is easily in full mint condition. The blade has been protected by a fine tan leather buffer. This is a great sword for show, or a unique piece to brag about when someone comes over to see your sword collection. There is no way that anyone else will have a longer sword! This is a very rare piece. Mint. $795.00
SWDSOTH3 - 018 - 25883 – Army Dovehead by Alcoso
This Army Officer’s Dovehead sword is a high quality, heavy brass, example. The hilt is identical to the example shown in the Angolia sword book on page 64, upper left. This fine brass has quite bit of original gilding spread throughout the hilt. It rates at approximately 85% to 90%. The design features a pommel, with raised-out oak leaves, which follow along the back strap and grip tabs. These raised-out oak leaves also extend to the “P” guard. The crossguard features a finely done, open winged eagle, which faces to the viewer’s right. This bird has lots of hand work visible throughout its head, wing feathering, breast feathering, talons, and wreathed swastika. The swastika is raised out in the center. On either side of the bird’s talons, are downward pointing oak leaves, which also have been hand enhanced. A beautiful design here! The grip is a black celluloid over a carved wood base. The celluloid remains in perfect condition, and is tightly wrapped with triple twisted brass wire, the center being slightly larger. There is also an original- to-the-piece, Officer’s portepee, still in the Army tie. This portepee is the green leather type, having dual wings of aluminum stitching running the length. There is some mild wear to the knot at the area where it comes out of the tie, but since it is set in place, it should stay there for a while, and it looks great. The slide is a thong leather type, with bullion highlights. The stem is the flat type, having a crocheted look, exposing the metal beneath. The oval ball is of bullion yarn-like material, having a matching lower insert. The mirror-bright blade is a high quality, nickel-plated, example. It is in full mint condition, and measures 31 inches in length. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the early marking of this firm, consisting of scales having the firms’ initials interspersed, “ACS”. Above this is an arch-shaped firm name, “Alcoso”, and below, is the name of the city, “Solingen”. The brown leather washer is in place. The scabbard is nice and straight, and reflects outstanding original paint. This paint is nearly 100%, and still retains its original factory brightness. The scabbard is in near full mint condition. A nice quality sword here, showing very little wear. Excellent, Plus, Plus $795.00(#040708)
SWDSOTH3 - 019 - 25881 – Army Officer’s Lionhead - WKC
This Army Officer’s Lionhead is the WKC model No.1059. It is identical to the example shown in the Angolia book on page 138, upper right. This hilt features an outstanding, cast brass, lionhead design. The lionhead is equipped with blood-red, faceted glass eyes, which really look great, peering out of the patinated head of this feline. This sword is all brass, and has good gilded finish remaining, which is still in all of the recesses, and is thinning on the higher parts. The gilded finish looks to be about 80% to 85%. This cat has lots of hand enhancing visible throughout the whiskers of its snout, brow, and flowing mane. The back strap has a series of floral-style leaves with a center panel left open for possible initials. The “P” guard is the style having raised-out oak leaf and acorn sprigs. The center crossguard is most impressive having an open winged, vaulted outward, eagle. This eagle looks to the viewer’s left and has outstanding detail to his head, breast feathering, talons, wing feathering, wreath, and raised-out mobile swastika. The quillon ends in a forward curve. The ferrule also features oak leaf motif. The black celluloid grip is in fine condition, and is over a carved wood base. It is wrapped with triple twisted brass wire, which is slightly loose in a couple of places, but the wire is all there. This triple twisted wire has a larger center example. Wrapped about the hilt is what appears to be the original- to-the-piece troddel. This troddel is a green leather Army example, having decorative lines running up the edges of the length. The leather shows normal usage and age, but it is still in good condition. The slide is an off-white, leather thong, type. The stem is a tightly weaved white silk color. The oval ball has a yellow yarn-like top, and gray yarn-like bottom, with stuffing of silver bullion material. This troddel looks nice on the hilt. The blade is a high quality, mirror-bright example, reflecting nickel-plated finish. This fine blade is 31 inches in length. At the obverse ricasso is the knighthead stamping with the firm’s initials, “WKC”, below. The scabbard is also a choice example, being straight throughout, and having outstanding original paint. This paint shows a little bit of usage and age, but overall, it is still near 100%, and retains most of its original factory brightness. A fine lionhead sword here. Excellent, Plus $795.00
SWDSOTH3 - 020 - 25731 - ARMY DOVE HEAD SABER MODEL 3 - Puma
This Army Dove Head Saber is a beauty. It really is in choice condition throughout, being a gilded aluminum base hilt. The gilding appears to be 100% throughout the beautiful designs. The sword is the same as is shown in the Angolia book on Page 115, top. The pommel consists of lots of raised out oak leaves and acorns with pebbled background designs. The oak leaf and acorn motif continue into the overlapping grip tabs. The “P” guard features more of the same and the cross guard ends in a swirling quillon. The center area has an open-winged Army eagle having much detail to its wing feathering, breast feathering, head designs, talons, wreath and raised out swastika. This is a good-looking rendering! The grip is a shiny, black celluloid-over- wood variety. It is in perfect condition, being tightly wrapped with triple twisted, aluminum wire, the center being slightly larger. Accenting this fine hilt is what appears to be an original-to-the piece Army Officer’s portepee. This portepee consists of green-toned leather which is twin-stitched with aluminum wire running the length. There is a slide of green leather with bullion trim. The stem is the flat crochet type and the lower ball is composed of yarn-like bullion with a smooth bouillon stuffing. An outstanding, mint hilt here! The scabbard is also in choice condition. It is straight throughout and has very fine, original black paint. This black paint retains most of its original factory brightness. It does have some minor spidering and a few signs of carrying time but, all in all, it is still in great condition and with a little work with some wax would easily clean up to be in near mint condition. The blade is a 32 inch long curved example. It is just as nice as the outside parts, being a high-quality, nickel plated, mint conditioned example. The obverse ricasso is stamped, “No3". This, of course, jibes with the Puma catalogue’s model number for this particular sword. The reverse is stamped with the diamond trademark of this firm. Inside the diamond it features the head of a Puma and beneath is the name of the firm, “Puma”. Beneath this, below the diamond, is the location city of “Solingen”. The black leather washer is in place. A very fine sword here, which would be very difficult to upgrade. Mint Minus. $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 022 - RICOCCO ARMY LIONHEAD OFFICER - Richard Abr. Herder
This is the very desirable exotic lionhead made exclusively by Richard Abr. Herder known as their model number, ÷1017.÷ It has an Art Deco-style throughout, but also has been extensively factory enhanced to give it a Ricocco look. It is one of the rarely seen swords, which incorporate the ferrule in the crossguard langet design. These swords are extremely desirable and must have been produced just as the war was breaking out, as we do not see many around. This example is one of the brass base types. It has pretty good gilding still in the recessed surfaces, rating at about 60-70%. The lionhead almost looks Chinese. This cat has hand enhancing to his whiskers, brow and also his flowing mane. His eyes are a beautiful large size blood red. These eyes are faceted, and are set rather deep in their sockets - great looking thing here. The reverse of the backstrap has hand-enhanced floral designs. The "D" guard has more of the same. One of the reasons these hilts look so exotic is that none of the line edges are concise. These borders are all erratic in keeping with the art deco designs. The langet is most attractive having high art floral designs, and then in the center, is a very large Wehrmacht eagle which clutches a swastika. This bird has a snakelike head with a beak that goes upward just slightly. The breast feathering is hand enhanced, as are the feathers of the closed wings. The swastika is prominent and all is given relief by the border below featuring floral designs high off the surface. The quillon ends in a rounded ball, which is also floral decorated. If you do not know what these swords look like you can see an example on page 85 of the Angolia Book, or Johnson shows one on page 144 of Volume I on the left. Just looking at these photographs, as well as the sword itself, I do not know how any serious collector could not sleep without having one of these in his collection. The grip of this example is in perfect condition. It is black celluloid over a wood base and features eight ribs. The ribs are wrapped with a larger single twisted wire. The book illustrations show triple wire but this one looks original . There are no signs there ever was more than one wire on this grip. The balde is a 31 ½ inch example remaining bright throughout. It is in near full mint condition showing only the most modest signs of usage. The reverse ricasso is marked, ÷Rich. A. Herder, Solingen.÷ The letters are formed in arches that meet each in an ellipse. Inside, is the ÷diamond÷ logo of this firm. The straight scabbard shows quite a bit of age and rust, with the paint rating at about 80%. This scabbard could use a new, professional, paint job, as this would equalize the condition of all parts ÷ this fine hilt deserves it. A very rare sword with brass base and good blade. Very desirable and a ÷must÷ for all advanced Sword collections. Excellent plus, plus (20586) $1995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 023 - ARMY OFFICER PANTHERHEAD SABER W/BUILT-IN FERRULE - WMW Waffen.
The WMW hilt with built-in ferrule design is very rarely encountered. It is a "key" example to the serious sword collector. This example is the first one I have seen produced with a brass base metal. I have had this pattern in gilted aluminum in the past, but they are extremely rare. If you are not familiar with the rare design, a dovehead model of this hilt can be seen in Angolia, Page 142. This very heavy example does not have much gilting remaining, but the brass is highest quality, showing outstanding details. The leopard head has hand-enhancing to the brows, upper snout and kitty whiskers. The bright red eyes are faceted stone. They look great peering from the toned brass finish. The top pommel contains a brass plug which conceals the tang. The plug has been hand-chiseled with cat hair, successfully camouflaging its presence. The "P" guard and the backstrapping are designed with raised oak leafing. The backstrap area, though, has been heavily hand-chiseled to bright out relief. Lots of extra pebbling and enhancing to looks at in this area - nice. The langet and ferrule are all built-into the design. This motif, is very rare. The langet is an unusual shape, being curved outward at the lower. It features an impressive, long, closed-winged eagle - lots of hand work on this bird, also. The bird head and upper wing areas extend into the ferrule, something which could only be accomplished with this design - great-looking. To complete the fine presentation of this rare sight, the quillon ends in a finely detailed small lionhead. The black celluloid grip is in perfect condition. It is wrapped with thin triple brass, twisted wire. The center is slightly larger, and twisted opposite. The fine quality blade is 30 1/2 inches in length. It is nickel-plated and in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped, "WMW Waffen". The scabbard is straight throughout. It has good original paint, which is still bright. The lower chape area is lacking a little, but basically, this paint rates at about 95%, being in excellent plus condition. This saber has to be one of the rarest of all 3rd Reich-produced patterns. To find it in brass is really incredible - didn't know it would exist with this material. Seems to mean these built-in ferrule designs may have existing earlier than we had originally thought. This design in brass, comparatively, would make the "Lutzow", the Herder "#1017", and the Klaas "basket-hilt" almost common place. A fine example for the serious sword collector.Excellent Plus (4286) $1,995.00 SWDSOTH3 - 024 - ART-DECO, FLAT KNUCKLE BOW, DOVEHEAD ARMY OFFICER - Robt. Klaas.
This "slant-gripped" design dovehead is very rarely seen. This hilt design can be viewed in the Angolia Sword Book, Page 104. The hilt is quality brass, having choice gilded finish. The gilding appears to be all there, resulting in a fine sheen. The hilt features unusual raised-out floral designs throughout the pommel and backstrap areas. The designs continue to the flat-style knuckle bow and also to the quillon portion. The langet features a raised-out, closed-winged Army eagle which clutches a swastika. The design is unique and features background pebbling. The quillon ends in a ball-like shape. The appealing black celluloid-over-wood base grip features ribbing which runs on a slant from left to right. There are seven ribs. This perfect-conditioned grip is tightly wrapped with delicate silvered triple wire, the center being twisted. Great hilt here. The blade is a long 33 inch example. It is bright throughout and remains in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the "kissing cranes" logo of this firm. The firm's name and location, "Robt Klaas" and "Solingen", appear above and below the logo. The scabbard is straight throughout. It has some minor age here and there, but for the most part, this paint is still pretty nice. It is bright, and remains at about 95%. A rare sword, and a choice addition for the advanced collector. Near Mint (17557) $1,495.00 SWDSOTH3 - 025 - PATHERHEAD ARMY OFFICER W/BUILT-IN FERRULE - WMW Waffen.
This rare pattern is the first example I have offered of this configuration. The hilt is a gilted aluminum variety. The gilting is the more yellow-style variety frequently seen on aluminum hilts by Clemen and Jung, Puma, etc. The gilting is nearly 100% - nice. There is a dovehead version of this sword shown in the Angolia Sword Book, Page 142, but there is an exact example shown in Johnson Volume 1, Page 150, left. The cat's head is finely chiseled in the same manner an early brass example would be. The feline has red faceted eyes. There is a tang plug, which is finely hand chiseled with cat hair, to match the other fur of the animal. The backstrap and "P" guard feature unique oak leaf designs, each reflecting lots of hand care to detail. The backstrap also incorporates a plain center area, where a design is featured for the use of a monogram. The crossguard incorporates the ferrule area, together with the langet. The result is a rather interesting large-sized, closed-winged eagle clutching a swastika. The unique Wehrmacht eagle is highly detailed, and impressively vaulted. The upper portion of the stylized bird overlaps into the ferrule area. It is cast within a shield-shaped langet. The quillon end is shaped in the form of an additional lionhead. This cat is rather flat on both sides, having excellent detailing. The black celluloid grip is in perfect condition. It is triple wrapped with thin twisted aluminum wire, the center being slightly larger, and twisted opposite. Great looking hilt, here, and extremely rare. The 31 1/2 inch blade is in choice mint condition, not being nickel-plated, but finished in the later matte style. The obverse ricasso is two-line stamped in a perpendicular manner, "WMW Waffen". This design was no doubt a late submission, accounting for its rarity. The scabbard is a fine straight example, having still bright original paint. Other than a little normal carrying wear mostly confined to the hand-hold area at the reverse shell, this scabbard paint is in excellent plus condition. A very rare opportunity to acquire a never-seen sword.Near Mint (3581) $1,595.00 SWDSOTH3 - 029 - ARMY OFFICER DOVEHEAD - No Maker (E. Pack).
Although there is no marking on the blade of this quality example, it is a Pack product. It looks identical to the example shown on Page 112, upper. The hilt is a cast brass design having outstanding gilding. The cast design features lots of oak leaves and acorn mix throughout the pommel, backstrap, "P" guard and ferrule. The designs are quite attractive as they have a frosted finish which contrast effectively with highlighted bright areas separating the panels. The quillon ends with swirled designs. The obverse langet features an open-winged eagle which clutches a wreathed swastika. The eagle is well detailed, having decorative leaves flanking its legs. The reverse langet is also attractive having oak leafing and a raised round panel. It looks similar to the example shown in Angolia Sword Book, Page 116. There is a stylized "Z" letter artistically scratched into this surface - no doubt the original owner's monogram. The fine blade is a beauty, being finished in a matte style. It is in mint condition. It belonged to a very tall man as this blade measures 34 inches - pretty long, as 35 inches was about as long as blades come. The scabbard is straight throughout. It has bright original paint, showing almost no age and rating in near mint condition. A very fine sword here. A fairly rare pattern.Mint Minus (17599) $ 675.00
SWDSOTH3 - 030 - UNTOUCHED "HOLLER 21" PATTERN - F.W. Höller.
The Höller 21 Pattern is one of the most sought-after of all swords. I guess it is because of the fabulous design, as well as the rarity of this design - you don't see many of these swords. These example needs some minor cleaning up, but it is all there and should really look great with a little effort. If you don't know the "look" of these hilts, you can see the design on Page 92 upper of the Angolia Book, or there is a great shot of one on Page 151 of Johnson's Volume One. This example is a very heavy brass type, being very highly detailed. The hilt shows minor age, but retains quite a bit of the original gilding. This gilt looks to be about 60% to 70%. If the brass areas were worked a little with a mild polish, all could be beautifully blended and the result quite striking. The design features the small pantherhead seeming to be squeezing out from the larger art-deco mane of the cat. The feline is fit with little red beady faceted glass eyes. The backstrap has a large-size stem of oak leaves growing in rows up the length - unique and striking. The side center plates of the back strap have up and down facing larger acorns. The reverse of this area is equipped with a screw, which helps retain the hilt in place. The "P" guard is relatively standard, having raised oak leafing. The langet is always the most memorable on these swords as it deviates drastically from normal designs of the period. The crossguard itself combines the ferrule area, making room for a very large raised-out, closed-winged, Wehrmacht eagle clutching a wreathed swastika. The details to this unique bird are terrific. Again, a little work could really make for a stunning presentation. Beneath the hilt, Ges. Gesch is lightly stamped, an indication the Höller firm held the patent on the design. The black celluloid-over-wood grip is in fine condition. It has only five ribs in the design. Each is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. The bright blade is a huge, 35 1/2 inches in length. This saber must have been carried by a very tall man. This is about the longest standard blade made during the period. This blade is a quality nickel plate. There are a few very minor smudges in the surfaces - most would come out with a little work. This blade grades at near mint. The reverse ricasso is deeply stamped with the famous logo of this company. It is a double ovaled circle which traps the company name and location. Inside, is the detailed thermometer logo. The scabbard is straight throughout. It shows quite a bit of age in the original paint, but a little rubbing compound, wax and some effort could correct a lot of this, as the paint is thick and still covers at 100%. All and all a very fine sword with lots of potential for the collector enjoying a little minor restoration work. Should be a rewarding project.Excellent Plus (16549) $1,895.00 SWDSOTH3 - 033 - ARMY OFFICER DOVEHEAD SABER W/VERY LONG BLADE - Alcoso.
This fine example is a gilded steel based variety. The hilt decoration has been achieved through engraving, not casting. There are beautiful oak leaf and acorn mix designs throughout the pommel, backstrap, "P" guard and ferrule. These designs feature lots of hand checkering and other enhancements - the factory chiseler was a real master here. The gilding is good throughout this hilt, thinning only a little at the pommel area where the original owner's hand was placed during actual wear. The langet features an engraved closed-winged Army eagle, which clutches a swastika in its talons. The feathering to the wings features minute hand work, as does the bird's breast feathering and leg details. These hand done figures must have been accomplished with the use of a template, but they sure are fun to study. The engraving craft of the 1930's was really something - probably no one alive today possessing these kind of skills. This dovehead example is the same as seen in Angolia Sword Book, Page 64, lower right. The celluloid-over-wood grip is in perfect condition. It is very tightly wrapped with triple brass twisted wire, the center being slightly larger size. The blade of this example is the longest you will encounter on an Army Officer saber. It is actually 35 1/2 inches in overall length - a tremendous blade here. The original owner of this sword was a very tall individual indeed - probably over 6'3" at least. Holding this sword next to me, I feel like a midget! This very long blade is a marvel to study, as it is richly nickel plated, displaying a mirrored finish. This blade is easily in full mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the early Alcoso scales trademark used from 1937 to about 1939. The firm's name is block-lettered in an arch over a set of scales. Interspersed in the scales is the firm's initials, "ACS". The accompanying scabbard is straight throughout. It has excellent original black paint, showing only a little minor age in the finish - will clean up substantially, and will easily rate at excellent plus. A long saber of this nature belongs in every serious sword collection, as the blade length alone, is a very rarely encountered plus. Excellent Plus (17612) $ 550.00 SWDSOTH3 - 034 - ARMY DOVEHEAD SABER W/TWO NATIONAL EMBLEMS - None (Emil Voos)
The hilt of this always interesting dovehead type is all brass, showing no gilding. It is very heavy metal, and beautiful hand accented to all details. This is the hilt design which incorporates the national emblem at the "P" guard and the langet. It is identical to the example shown on Page 126 of the Angolia Book. The pommel top and backstrap have an interesting motif of flowers and designs, the likes of which can be only seen on Voos-made hilts. The "P" guard has raised-out oak leaves, and centered is a raised Wehrmacht eagle, having closed wings and grasping a swastika in its talons. The crossguard langet area has an art-deco type eagle. It has open wings and grasps a wreathed swastika. There is a raised oak leaf on either side of the swastika depiction. There is no gilding left to this all-brass, toned hilt, but it would surely shine-up nice if that is your taste. The black celluloid grip is in excellent condition, being wrapped with triple brass wire. The center is twisted. The 33 inch long blade is a real beauty, and of highest quality. It is completely bright throughout the nickel finish. This blade is in mint condition. It is unmarked, but anyone knows it was made by Emil Voos. The scabbard is straight throughout. It has dull black paint on its surfaces, which might clean up a little with some effort. This paint covers 100% and looks original. There is also a black leather sword sling. The leather has some crazing to the surfaces, but it still looks serviceable. This strapping is similar to the example shown in Angolia, on Page 255, right. There is a belt loop on one end, fit with chain and hook assembly. The other has a snap for securing the sling to the scabbard ring and a gilded buckle for adjusting the length. Fine sword here, in "as found" condition. Will clean up nice with a minimum of effort. Excellent Plus (16152) $ 750.00
SWDSOTH3 - 044 -ROCOCO ARMY LIONHEAD OFFICER - Richard Abr. Herder
This is the very desirable exotic lionhead made exclusively by Richard Abr. Herder known as their model number 1017. It has an Art Deco motif throughout, but has been extensively factory enhanced to give it a Rococo look. It is one of the modernistic swords, which incorporate the ferrule in the crossguard langet design. These swords are extremely rare and must have been produced just as the war was breaking out, as we do not see many around. This example is a brass base type. It has pretty good gilding still in the surfaces, rating at about 60-70%. The lionhead almost looks Chinese. This cat has hand-enhancing to his whiskers, brow and also his flowing mane. His eyes are a beautiful large size blood red. These eyes are faceted, and are set rather deep in their sockets - great looking thing here. The reverse of the backstrap has hand-enhanced floral designs. The "D" guard has more of the same. One of the reasons these look so exotic is none of the line edges are concise. These borders are all erratic adding to the appealing design. The langet is most attractive having high art floral designs. In the center is a very large Wehrmacht eagle which clutches a swastika. This bird has a snake like head with a beak that goes upward just slightly. The breast feathering is hand enhanced as are the feathers of the closed wings. The swastika is prominent and all is given relief by the border below featuring floral designs high off the surface. The quillon ends in a rounded ball which is also floral decorated. If you do not know what these swords look like you can see an example on page 85 of the Angolia Book or Johnson shows one on page 144 of Volume I on the left. Just looking at these photographs, as well as the sword itself, I do not know how any serious collector could not sleep without having one of these in his collection. The grip of this example is in perfect condition. It is black celluloid over a wood base and features eight ribs. The ribs are wrapped with a larger single twisted wire. The book illustrations show triple wire but this one looks original. The blade of this example measures 32 inches in length. It is nice and bright being a fine nickel-plated example. It shows little age and is still in mint condition. The reverse is stamped with the producer's name and location being done in a ellipse formation of letters, "Rich. A. Herder Solingen". In the center is the diamond logo of this company. The scabbard is nice and straight throughout and does have original paint. Unfortunately, a lot of rust has developed in the paint finish and this scabbard really ought to be redone as it does little to compliment the sword. The scabbard paint is about 60-70%. With a new paint job and with the hilt cleaned and shined this piece would grade much higher. Every thing is here for an appreciative collector to really make for a fine example. Excellent Plus, Plus (20586) $1995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 045 - ARMY OFFICER PANTHER HEAD ART DECO SWORD - WMW
This sword pattern is ultra rare and is the same as appears on page 149 of Johnson's Volume I. I have never had one of these WMW art deco panther heads and I do not believe I have ever seen one offered. This is easily one of the rarer swords made during the Third Reich period. This sword incorporates the ferrule and crossguard in one piece featuring a large closed winged eagle clutching a swastika. The design fabrication is almost the same as was used on the Holler 21 model and also on the Richard Herder model number 1017. Sword collectors will know what I am talking about here. The hilt base metal of this sword is aluminum. It reflects a gilded finish and appears to have been copper flashed prior to the gilding. The gilding remains at approximately 50-60%. The gilding is mostly gathered in the recessed areas and on the higher edges it has worn off exposing the copper in some areas and the lighter color aluminum base in others. The details however are still crisp throughout the depiction. The sword hilt pommel portrays a stylized panther head which is almost done in an impressionistic design. Behind the head of the cat there are lots of oak leaves and acorns and these are more realistic in their caricature. The D-guard also portrays realistic oak leaves and stops at the combination ferrule langet area. Continuing after the langet are more oak leaves. The quillon ends in a beautifully rendered acorn depiction. The reverse of the langet has a smooth oval disc which would have been meant for personalization. This design is very simplistic but also has great appeal, especially when the collector realizes its rarity. The black celluloid grip has a wood base and is in perfect condition. This grip features eight ribs throughout and it is tightly wrapped with triple-twisted small proportioned brass wire. The top of the pommel area reveals that the tang is retained through the lion's head with a flush mount plug device. The blade is a 33-inch long example having still bright nickel-plating. There are some signs of sword play along the edges but the nicks are not deep and not too bad. There are a couple of scratches which were also caused on the blade surfaces from this sword play. All in all though the blade is not too bad as its brightness makes up for a lot . Were it not for the sword play this blade would grade at near mint. The reverse ricasso is stamped "WMW" over "Waffen". It is interesting to note that the original bright gilded finish remains throughout the lower portions of the hilt. The scabbard is straight throughout. The original paint has deteriorated substantially and there is much rust throughout the shell of this scabbard. It definitely needs a repaint but since there are no dents it should not be too bad of a job to have performed. This is a key example for the sword collector. There are very few collections which would have an example of this sword represented. Excellent (20590) $2,750.00
SWDSOTH3 - 050 - 25155 – ARMY PANTHER HEAD SWORD - E. Pack
This fine quality, all-brass base Army sword is the same as is shown in the Angolia sword book on Page 111. The gilded finish is very, very good here and rates about 95% throughout. The head of this cat is a nice shape and he has been hand-enhanced throughout to include his whiskers, brow and mane area. This feline is set with blood red, faceted glass eyes. The back strap is designed with oak leaves which run throughout the back side. The tab areas in the center have pinwheel type flowers with pebbled backgrounds. The “P” guard features raised out oak leaves with acorns. The ferrule is a typical Pack type, as it features oak leaves being straight up and down around its perimeter, and the top edge has a completely straight border. The cross guard shows a fine open-winged Army eagle which looks to the viewer’s left. The eagle is nicely detailed and has a slightly unusual breast feathering area, as instead of cross checkering, it appears as though the enhancement employee used a pebble design. This bird clutches a wreath with a mobile swastika. The reverse area has a oval shield left plain for possible future initials, and it is decorated with oak leaves and acorns above. The grip is also a fine example, as it is of an aluminum base and is black painted. The black paint is still good and has a nice sheen to it. This grip is triple wrapped with diminutive twisted copper wire, the center being slightly larger. The hilt is further decorated with an original Army Officer’s portepee. This portepee is the green leather strapping type, having twin lines of aluminum stitching running the length. It shows some mild usage, but is still intact and looks good. The slide is the thong leather type with bullion treatment and the stem is the flat crochet-like bullion. The oval ball is of bullion thread with a grey thread insert. An outstanding hilt here, being the Model No. 542. The blade is a thirty-three inch curved saber example. It reflects highest quality nickel plating and is mirror bright in Mint condition. This blade is marked on the reverse with the small hammering Siegfried figure. Beneath, is the firm’s name, “E. Pack Solingen”. The washer is interesting in that it is a blue felt, instead of the usual brown leather. This is a possible indication that this sword could have been used for something other than an Army officer, but there is no way to tell. Pack did use this model example for other types, as I have seen it used for Sea Customs, as well as also in silver, for early SS. At any rate, the blue felt buffer is anyone’s guess. It may have no meaning at all, for that matter. The scabbard is also a choice example, being completely straight. It has wonderful original paint which still appears to be at 100% throughout and has its original factory sheen. A very fine sword here, made of highest quality materials and in choice condition. Near Mint $1,095.00
SWDSOTH3 - 051 - 25154 – ARMY PANTHER HEAD – Anton Wingen, Jr.
This Army panther head is quite an unusual sword, as we do not see too many by the Wingen firm. It is a high quality piece, being solid brass with fine gilded surfaces. It is the same as the example shown in the Angolia sword book on Page 134, upper. The pommel cat is quite good looking, having hand work to his lower jaw area, his whiskers and also his brow and mane. This feline is fitted with faceted pink eyes, giving him a slightly different look. The back strap features laurel leaves which are all hand-enhanced, and at the center tabs, there are oak leaves with acorns. These center tabs have also been stippled as have areas on the back strap where there are no leaves. The same is true of the “P” guard, which has beautiful raised out, hand-enhanced oak leaves and acorns. The best feature, though, of this nice hilt, is the obverse langet. It portrays a most unusual, stubby winged eagle. This eagle has a point behind his head and looks to the viewer’s right. Actually, he looks a lot like a chicken or a rooster, but we don’t want the old Nazis to hear that! The feathering throughout this crazy looking bird has been hand-enhanced. He clutches a wreathed mobile swastika, which is almost as big as the entire bird’s body. The areas around the eagle have been hand-stippled, matching the motif throughout the rest of the sword. Beautiful depictions here, with gilding of about 95%. The grip is a fine black celluloid-over-wood base. It is in perfect condition and is wrapped with triple silver wire. This wire is twisted in the center for contrast. Further decorating the hilt, is a nice Army Officer portepee. This portepee features green leather having twin aluminum stitching running the length. There are some breaks in the leather, but they are in areas where the knot is set in place and they are not apt to further deteriorate, as the wire stitching is holding them in place. The leather thong slide is fine, and the lower ball has the flat crochet-like stem with bullion thread. The insert below, is of a matching thread. The thirty-one inch blade is a beauty, being of slightly larger proportion than the norm. It is the size that we sometimes see used with Cavalry officer’s pieces. The blade has a fine single fuller and reflects highest quality nickel plating. This blade is mirror bright and shows almost no age, easily being in Mint condition. The reverse ricasso is marked with the little knight figure, having the firm’s name over, and the location below, “Anton Wingen, Jr. Solingen”. The brown leather washer is in place. The accompanying scabbard is also a fine example. It is straight throughout and has excellent original black paint. This paint is about 98%. It is interesting to note that the carrying ring is the fixed type, which we associate with NCOs. It is possible that this beautiful sword was carried by a high-ranking NCO, as many were permitted to carry swords. This may account for the reason is in such good condition, as there would have been few occasions for an NCO to wear this sword. A real beauty here, and a seldom seen pattern.Near Mint $1,195.00(#041408)
SWDSOTH3 - 052 -ARMY PANTHER HEAD SABER WITH TRIPLE ETCHED BLADE - Eickhorn / Voos
This sword is an interesting example, which has apparently seen two different German regimes. The triple etched blade of this example is by Carl Eickhorn and is their model number, "3237". If you have a copy of the Eickhorn catalog you can see this blade there or the same blade also appears in the Angolia Sword Book on page 43, second from top. This beautiful blade is of slightly larger proportion than norm. It is completely bright and the triple etch designs are fantastic. They are designed to be kind of a catch-all type as they feature crossed canons on the reverse side of the blade and crossed swords also in the design. There are also war implements, swords, bugles, helmets, etc. The blade is really best described as arabesque regarding the floraling. Other than a little bit of age on the ricasso, the rest of the blade is easily in full mint condition. It measures 33 inches in length. The reverse ricasso carries the large double Eickhorn oval style used in the late 1920's with a seated squirrel in the center. Apparently the officer who owned this blade had it rehilted after the Nazi's came to power, as the hilt is actually an example produced by Emil Voos. This hilt design can be seen in the Angolia Sword Book on page 128, lower. This hilt features a panther head cat pommel fitted with fiery red faceted eyes. The cat has good hand-enhanced detail. The backstrap features an oak leaf raised out design with oak leaves extending into the side tabs. The "P"-guard also has oak leaf designs. The ferrule is kind of interesting having oak leaves on 45 degree angles with alternating acorns. The crossguard features an open winged eagle which has much hand-enhancing to the feathering throughout the wings and breast area. The eagle clutches a wreathed raised out swastika. The quillon is floraled curling to a round ball. This hilt appears to be a light weight metal beneath the gilded finish. The gilding is still pretty good showing wear only on the high areas. Where there is wear, however, the finish is copper indicating the aluminum base was flash plated prior to the gilded final finish. The grip is a black celluloid over wood. It is in perfect condition and is wrapped with triple brass wire, the center being twisted. The scabbard is the style that we might associate with an NCO as it has a fixed ring. This also could indicate that the original carrier could have been an NCO during the Reischwehr period. After the Nazi's came to power, he may have become an officer, another reason why the sword may have been rehilted. The scabbard is straight throughout and has good original black paint showing only minor age, but covering at nearly 100%. A very interesting example and reflective of two periods of German history. This sword is a direct vet purchase I made from an elderly couple in Massachusetts. Excellent Plus (23288) $1995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 065 - ARMY DOVEHEAD SABER - F.W. Höller
This beautiful Army saber is in very choice condition. It is an early brass example having 100% gild to its finish. It is the model # 24 made by Höller and it can be seen in the Angolia Sword Book on page 93, lower. The sword is a dovehead type having a lined off pommel which portrays raised out oak leafing. Below the line there is a panel of oak leaf sprigs which are raised out throughout the backstrap. These oak leaves continue into the side grip tabs. The ferrule also has oak leaf sprigs as does the "P" guard. All of these beautiful panels have hand stippling in the backgrounds. The workmanship is very nice throughout this sword hilt. The crossguard features a vaulted open winged Army style eagle which clutches a wreathed raised swastika. The details are exceptional throughout this depiction and on each side of the bird's talons there are raised out diamond figures and pebble patterns. The quillon ends in the usual swirl. The reverse langet has a fine shield like raised out device. The fine gilded surfaces really make a pleasure for the viewer here. The grip is the usual black celluloid-over-wood base. This celluloid is in complete perfect condition and is tightly wrapped with triple copper wire. The center wire is a springy type. The scabbard is nice and straight and also has exceptional original scabbard paint. This black paint remains in mint condition showing almost no age at all. The fine 31-inch blade reflects quality nickel plating. It has a mirrored finish and is in full mint condition, as we would expect. The reverse langet is stamped with the familiar double circles of this company. They trap the firm's name, "F.W. Höller Solingen". Inside is the thermometer device. The brown leather washer is in place. This is a great sword for those who insist on the best of condition. You will not upgrade it! Mint (23710) $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 067 - 24226 - EXTREMELY LONG ARMY LIONHEAD SWORD - Alcoso
This Army lionhead sword is probably the longest army example I have seen. I think it probably was issued to a high NCO, perhaps in the Calvary. It would have been this NCO's job to lead his regiment in parade with the sword drawn. Chances are this sword would have been worn attached to a horse's saddle, due to its length. This lionhead sword hilt is the Alcoso model number, "116". It features an outstanding feline head which is the type without faceted eyes. I believe that the eye arrangement could have been something reserved for officers. An any rate, the features of this lion's head have been nicely hand rendered to the bottom of the jaw, the whiskers, the eyelids and the mane which runs backward slightly down the sword. Prior to the center area, there is some nice clamshell type renderings which have hand accenting as well as hand pebbled surfaces. The "D" guard has raised out oak leafing as does the ferrule. The crossguard has a typical Alcoso style open winged eagle which looks to the viewer's right. The breast area of this eagle, as well as the legs and the wreath enclosing the swastika, have all been hand enhanced. Nice looking hilt here reflecting approximately 95-98% gilded finish. The grip is an outstanding black celluloid-over-wood base. It is tightly wrapped with triple-twisted brass wire, the center being slightly larger. The blade of this example is really something. It is so long I can hardly withdraw it from the scabbard with my short fat arms. This blade is a highest quality nickel-plated example still remaining bright and in mint condition. The blade measures 38-inches in length! Factory catalogs specify blades were available up to 35-inches, so no doubt this was a special order piece. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark used from 1937-1939. It depicts the scales with the firm's initials, "ACS" interspersed. Above is the firm's name, "Alcoso" arch shaped and below the town of business, "Solingen". The scabbard of this example still has good original factory paint. This paint remains bright and is easily excellent plus, plus to near mint condition. There is a minor ding about 5-inches from the chape, but considering the length of this example, it is surprising that this scabbard has remained in this good of a condition. A very rare sword here and a nice addition to any advanced sword collection. Near Mint $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 069 - 24230 - ARMY OFFICER DOVE HEAD SABER - Robert Klaas
This fine highest quality Army sword is very heavy and is in excellent condition throughout. The hilt is of solid brass having outstanding fire-gilded finish. The fire gilding still remains at about 95-98% throughout this hilt. It is only the pommel top area where a little of the gold has worn off. This sword is the Klaas model number, "233" and can be seen in the Angolia Sword Book on page 102, top. The pommel and backstrap are covered with highly detailed oak leafing and acorn sprigs. These formations have much hand-enhancing throughout and also have random pebbling in the backgrounds to further the relief of the depictions. The "P" guard has the same treatment. The ferrule is an oak leaf and acorn embellished piece. The crossguard has a distinctive Army eagle which looks to the viewer's left. This eagle has open wings and is the unique Robert Klaas type having a fan-like look to the spread. The bird has much hand detailing throughout his wing feathering, breast feathering, head and leg areas. The wreath and swastika are left plain to provide a contrast to all of the handwork. Beautiful depiction here! The black celluloid grip is in totally perfect condition and it is tightly wrapped with diminutive triple silver wire. This wire is twisted in the center and has turned black with patination. The nearly 35-inch long blade is most impressive. This blade has a mirror finish and reflects highest quality nickel-plated finish. It is easily in a full mint condition. The reverse ricasso is marked with the kissing cranes trademark having the firm's name and location stamped in a circular pattern around the birds, "Robert Klaas Solingen". The scabbard remains nice and straight throughout having excellent original painting. This paint does show some minor spidering, but it still rates in near mint condition. An outstanding highest quality saber here. Near Mint $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 070 - 24231 - ARMY PANTHER HEAD SWORD - Alcoso
This Army panther head is about as nice as you will see them. It is of all brass construction, highly detailed, and has choice fire gilded finish. This gilding rates at about 95%. This cat head is fitted with bright red faceted eyes. He has good features throughout his face with hand pebbling obvious on his jaw area and hand-enhancing to his whiskers and mane area which flows backward to the backstrap. The backstrap itself has raised out oak leaves and acorns as does the "P" guard. These depictions have hand-enhancing and also the same hand pebbling which is shown on the lower jaw of the cat. The ferrule repeats the motif. The crossguard is a typical Alcoso style having an open winged eagle which looks to the viewer's right. This bird has hand-enhancing throughout his breast feathering, legs, wing feathering and wreath. The raised swastika is plain. The quillon continues to a curved ball on the end. Nice looking hilt here being the same as the example shown in the Angolia Book on page 64, upper right. The black celluloid grip is in perfect condition being triple wrapped with brass wire having a twisted center. The original Army Officer portepee is still wrapped about the hilt in the regulation tie. This portepee is set in place and still is in near full mint condition. It is the green leather type with two rows of aluminum stitching running the length of the strapping. The slide is the green leather woven type with bullion highlights. The stem is the crochet flat type and the lower oval ball is of aluminum bullion having a green cat's anus stuffing. Very fine hilt here! The 31-inch blade is a fine example being mirror bright throughout. There is just a little bit of slight smudge about 6-inches down from the ricasso on both sides but it really does not effect the mint rating of this piece and would clean out if someone wanted to work a little bit with it. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the late trademark of this firm. This was the last logo used, consisting of the sideways placed scales having the firm's initials, "AWS" interspersed. To the right of the scales is the firm's script written name, "Alcoso" over "Solingen". For a late made sword the quality is still here on this example. The scabbard is also a beauty being straight throughout and reflecting near full mint original paint. This paint shows just a little bit of age spidering, but hardly anything. Overall an outstanding Army Officer's panther head saber. Near Mint $995.00
SWDSOTH3 - 071 - 24229 - ARMY DOVE HEAD SWORD - WMW
This Army dove head has some intriguing looks about it as it is not a frequently seen sword. WMW did not make many swords. This example is the same as is shown on page 143, lower and the upper pommel is the same as is shown on 142, lower of the Angolia Sword Book. This example is of aluminum construction having finely plated hilt. This gilding thins a little bit around the pommel and the upper edges of the "P" guard, but still remains rich throughout most of the backstrapping and all of the crossguard areas. This sword depicts an oak leaf and acorn motif throughout the "P" guard, backstrap, tabs and pommel area. The pommel area has an unusual leaf hand carved into the plug which covers the blade's tang. Interesting to be sure! The ferrule is also a fine quality example having much relief to the overlapping oak leaf sprigs which go around it. It is of higher quality than the example shown in the book. The crossguard is really a different looking eagle. Its wings tend to go on an upward slant that we do not see on other birds, making this eagle quite distinctive. The wings are out spread and the bird's head turns to the viewer's right. The feathering throughout the wings, head, breast and leg areas of this raptor reflects all handwork. It is great looking and immediately catches the viewer's eye. The wreath which surrounds the swastika is also hand worked and the swastika remains plain giving nice contrast. The grip is a black celluloid-over-wood example in perfect condition. It is tightly wrapped with silver triple wire which is also twisted and larger in the center. A beautiful hilt here and one you don't see often. The 33-inch long blade is also a dandy. It reflects high quality nickel-plated finish and is in mint condition. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the firm's initials, "WMW Waffen" which represents the Max Weyersberg Company. The scabbard is also a fine example being straight throughout and having good original black paint. This paint still has much of its life to its finish and is all there, but has some spidering throughout. Still, though, this paint is in excellent plus, plus condition. A very fine dove head of an infrequently seen producer. Near Mint $895.00
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