Germany, Kriegsmarine. A Kriegsmarine Dagger by E. u. F. Hörster

(Kriegsmarine Dolch). This is an extremely well-preserved Kriegsmarine dagger, constructed of nickel-plated steel with bronze fixtures, and measuring 420 mm in length inclusive of the scabbard. The magnetic blade, which features finely detailed acid-etched naval designs on both the obverse and reverse, measures 250 mm in length and presents with a sharpened tip and blunted edges. The blade features a makers mark near the ricasso of E. u. F. Hörster, Solignen, along with the company’s logo. The blade sits securely into the upper crossguard, itself constructed of bronze with raised anchor designs on both the obverse and reverse, while the latter also features a functional stud release for the dagger’s spring catch mechanism. The handle is constructed of off-white celluloid around which is wrapped a length of twisted and rolled copper wire. The dagger completes with a bronze pommel in the form of a Wehrmacht-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika in its talons. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of bronze and measuring 285 mm in length, The scabbard features etched designs around its circumference, and bears two bands, in the form of stylized oak leaves, bearing loops for the accommodation of a dagger hanger. The throat of the scabbard is securely held together by two visible rivets and retains its aforementioned catch. Minimal tarnishing and running marks are evident, along with some scratching of the celluloid handle, but the dagger is in an otherwise extremely fine condition.