Germany, RLB. An Officer’s Dagger, II Pattern, by Paul Weyersburg & Co.

(Reichsluftschutzbund Dolch für Offiziere). A rare Reichsluftschutzbund (RLB) second pattern Officer’s dagger, measuring 375 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features 245 mm 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 WEYERSBURG, SOLINGEN”. It sits securely within a lightly nickel-plated alloy crossguard, presenting with double-sided ribbing, with the obverse bearing an additional German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of contoured wood wrapped in a black leather liner. It completes with a flattened oval pommel, similarly constructed of a nickel-plated alloy, which screws in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft. Wrapped on the exterior with a black leather liner, it also features three magnetic metal fixtures secured in place at the tip, mid-section, and throat with side rivets. The throat fixture retains a functional spring catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage, while emanating from the latter two are integral loops for the accommodation of a dagger hanger. The former is included, and consists of dual black leather straps adjusted with functional silvered zink buckles. Each strap descended from a pair of integral loops in turn connecting to a functional spring clip, while the opposite ends also retain functional spring clips for attachment to the scabbard loops. The hanger measures 275 mm in length as presented. Conditions consistent with age and wear are evident, and include oxidation and running marks to the blade, the loss of most of the nickel plating, the loss of the handle grip’s RLB insignia, and some fatigue to the leather features of both the dagger and hanger. It is in an overall very fine condition.