Czechoslovakia, First Republic. A Decorative Hunting Dagger

An extremely well-preserved decorative hunting dagger, measuring 350 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 210 mm-long magnetic metal blade with a sharpened tip and sharpened lower edge, with fullers running the length of each side. A grooved notch is set into the upper edge of the blade near the tip. An unidentified maker’s mark is stamped onto the blade near the reverse ricasso. The blade sits securely within a stylized brass upper crossguard, with the seam covered by an intact green felt buffer pad. Emanating from the obverse of the crossguard is an oval medallion bearing a raised Czechoslovak lion. The handle grip consists of a single piece of polished and lacquered staghorn. The dagger completes with a rounded and ribbed brass pommel fastened together with a rounded nut. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft with a black leather exterior liner. The tip of the scabbard is adorned with a brass fitting which features raised oak leaf and acorn designs on both the obverse and reverse. A downward-pointing hook is set into the side, while the throat is secured together with dual side rivets and retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. While very well-preserved, it demonstrates some issues consistent with age, including pitting and running marks to the blade, oxidation of the brass elements, and fatigue to the scabbard leather. It is in an overall near extremely fine condition.