Germany, DLV. An Officer’s Dagger, by Paul Weyersberg

(DLV Fliegerdolch). A very well-preserved Deutsche Luftsportverband (DLV/German Air Sports Association) Officer’s dagger, measuring 56 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 40 cm-long polished magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. The blade is plain with the exception of a maker’s mark on the reverse ricasso of “PAUL WEYERSBERG, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s log of a wreathed sword. It sits securely within a nickel-silver crossguard which presents as a pair of stylized wings, each inset with a central gilt sunwheel-style mobile swastika. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of ribbed dark blue Moroccan leather. Completing the dagger is a rounded and flattened pommel, similarly bearing gilt double-sided mobile swastikas. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a dark blue Moroccan leather shaft. Nickel-silver fittings are riveted in place at the tip, mid-section, and thoat. Emanating from the latter two are integral loops for the accommodation of a chain, complete with a functional spring clip for uniform suspension. The throat also retains a functional spring catch, firmly holding the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age are evident, and include slight tarnishing of the blade and a consistent patina throughout the nickel-silver elements. The dagger is in an overall extremely fine condition.