Germany. A Possible Prototype of a Luftwaffe Honour Goblet, c. 1935-1936

This goblet is constructed of silver, consisting of a bowl, stem and base. The bowl has a straight rim, and features the traditional eagles eagles in combat on a plaque separately applied to the side, with an early Luftwaffe sun-wheel swastika directly beneath, also separately applied. The stem and base are gently downward sloping, with a rim above the base, and with a filler plate attached to the underside of the base, with two breather holes visible. It measures 103 mm (w) x 210 mm (h), with light patina from age, but overall free from dings or bends, in overall near mint condition.

Footnote: The sun-wheel swastika design was used during the early days of the transitional period of the Luftwaffe. It is best known for being a trademark of the first type Luftwaffe ceremonial dagger, adapted in 1935, and replaced by the second type Luftwaffe dagger in 1937. Although, the traditional Luftwaffe Honour Goblet that was awarded for “Special Achievements in the Air War” was not adopted until February 27th, 1940, the Luftwaffe had existed and participated in air battles before this point, raising the definite possibility that this was an early prototype for the much sought after “Ehrenpokal der Luftwaffe”.