NAVY – Edged Weapons of the Navy
Naval Officer's Dagger – Model 1938
History & Introduction:
With the renaming of the Reichsmarine to Kriegsmarine in 1935, the external appearance of many uniform and equipment items also changed. A new insignia was introduced, while the naval officer's dagger initially remained unchanged.
The actual design modification of the naval dagger did not take place until 1938. It primarily concerned the pommel, which now bore the new insignia of the Kriegsmarine (German Navy). This change was officially ordered by the High Command of the Kriegsmarine and implemented within a few months.
Development & Execution:
The pommel used from 1938 onwards consisted of a gilded brass eagle, its head turned to the right. Its wings were half-opened and drawn downwards. In its talons, the eagle held an oak wreath with a raised swastika. Apart from this new pommel, the basic design of the naval officer's dagger remained largely unchanged and continued to be based on the proven earlier designs.
Design & Dimensions:
The naval officer's dagger has a straight, pointed blade that slopes down on both sides from the central rib to the edges. The blade length is approximately 25 cm. The metal scabbard measures around 28 cm and is equipped with carrying rings.
The crossguard is made of metal and features a stylized anchor as decoration. The grip is wire-wrapped and terminates in an eagle pommel. The blade is secured in the scabbard by an integrated retaining spring. The overall length of the dagger without the scabbard is approximately 38 cm.
Materials & Manufacturing Phases:
Early versions are distinguished by high-quality gilding and meticulous detailing. As the war progressed, material savings and simplified manufacturing processes were implemented – as with all edged weapons – although the basic external form was retained.
Manufacturers & Markings:
Naval officers' daggers were manufactured by numerous producers, primarily from the Solingen area. The manufacturer's mark is usually etched or stamped on the blade. Differences in design and placement can provide clues as to the production period.
Well-known and documented manufacturers of naval daggers include:
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Alcoso (Alexander Coppel & Son).
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Braun, Adolf (Distributor).
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Clemens & Jung.
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Eickhorn, Carl.
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Höller, FW
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Hörster, E. & F.
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Klaas, Robert.
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Krebs, Carl Julius.
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Lüneschloss, PD
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Pack, Ernst & Sons.
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Plümacher, Richard.
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Puma (Lauterjung & Co.).
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Seilheimer, Paul.
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SMF (Solingen Metal Goods Factory).
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Tiger (Lauterjung & Co.)
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Voos, Emil.
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Weyersberg, Max.
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Weyersberg, Paul.
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Wingen Jr., Anton.
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WKC (Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie.).
Collector's notes:
Naval officer daggers of the 1938 model are among the classic collecting areas of the Kriegsmarine.
Pieces that belong together, including hangings and original bound sword knot, are particularly in demand.
The state of preservation and the originality of all components are crucial for the valuation.
An expert assessment is recommended.
Buying and selling militaria – military antiques
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