An NPEA (National Political Educational Institute) Ploen Pupil’s Dagger by Burgsmüller

This is an extremely well preserved textbook example of a NPEA (National Political Educational Institute/Nationalpolitische Erziehungsanstalt) student’s dagger. It measures 370 mm with the scabbard on and features a completely untouched 221 mm long nickel plated steel (magnetic) blade, with a factory sharpened edge and a complete tip. The blade’s reverse ricasso is maker marked with the marks of “Karl Burgsmüller, Berlin Charlottenburg 5”. The obverse is acid etched with the NPEA’s motto “Mehr sein als scheinen” (Be more than you seem). It is diamond shaped, with beautiful cross-graining, and is extremely well preserved, with only light marks common to extraction and return to the scabbard. The thin brown leather washer remains almost fully intact and attached to the dagger. The crossguard is constructed of silver nickel and is marked “PL44142” on the reverse. The grip is constructed of mahogany with a matching upper crossguard, which is marked “NPEA Ploen” on the obverse. The pommel appears original to the dagger and although it looks as if it was removed once or twice, it does not look tampered with. The scabbard itself is constructed of brown lacquered steel with a ball final, a lip that is secured via two screws, with the addition of a dagger hanger. Overall, this dagger shows gentle period wear, but it is clear that its user did not abuse it. The scabbard fits perfectly to the crossguard, while the crossguard, blade, grip, and upper crossguard all fit equally as well. The grip does not demonstrate major dings without cracks of any kind, but with a small chip from period use to the wood by the upper cross guard. It is in overall near extremely fine condition.