Germany, Luftwaffe. A First Pattern Officer’s Dagger, by David Malsch

(Luftwaffe Fliegerdolch). A well-preserved first pattern Luftwaffe Officer’s dagger, measuring 380 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 310 mm-long polished magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. The blade presents plain with the exception of a maker’s mark of “DAVID MALSCH, STEINBACH (THÜR.)”, circumscribing the firm’s monogram logo, stamped onto the reverse ricasso. The blade sits securely within a silvered alloy crossguard, consisting of segmented wings arcing out in a semi-oval, with the seam covered by an intact black leather buffer pad. Inset into the centre of each side of the crossguard are circular medallions bearing gilded sunwheel-style mobile swastikas. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of wood wrapped in a ribbed dark blue Moroccan leather liner, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled silver aluminum wire cord. Completing the dagger is a flattened and rounded pommel, similarly bearing double-sided and gilded sunwheel-style mobile swastikas, screwing in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. Wrapped around the crossguard is a period original portepee, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn suspended from a strap of identical construction. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft wrapped in a dark blue Moroccan leather liner. Three nickel-plated fittings are secured to the tip, mid-section, and throat with side rivets. Emanating from the latter two are integral loops which accommodate a matching chain link hanger, constructed of aluminum, both ends of which culminate in a functional silvered spring catch. The former retains a rayon strap for uniform suspension. The scabbard completes with a functional throat spring catch, firmly holding the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and included some running marks to the blade, fatigue of the leather elements, and some unwinding of the handle wire. The dagger is in an overall near extremely fine condition.