A Naval Dagger by Hörster

This Hörster produced Naval Dagger is a textbook example and has remained untouched since eMedals acquired it this year. The pommel depicts a fine half open-winged eagle which looks to the viewer’s left. This bird has an outstanding head detail to the eye, nasal area and the beak. The breast feathering is also a crisp checkering and the feathering to the wings, talons, as well as the wreath and raised swastika are excellent. The cross guard has the traditional fouled anchor center blocks and the acanthus leaves are excellent on both sides. The end buttons are nicely engraved and the nipples are the variety that stick out quite far. The scabbard is nice and straight throughout. The majority of the gilding is worn off in time; lightning bolt style. It has outstanding stamping to the palmettes, the lightning bolts, the ermine feet and the acanthus leaves. These bands have highly detailed oak leaves and acorns. They are equipped with triple serrated eyelets. The throat is retained by two fairly large original dome head brass screws. The grip of this example is an off-white type. This is a fine grip exhibiting some contact but remaining solid and pleasant overall.  It is tightly wrapped with triple brass wire. The blade of this example is a double etched variety and retains its needlelike tip. It has not been cleaned since its arrival from a Canadian vets family and exhibits some residue on its surface. Again, this dagger is untouched! The obverse ricasso is stamped with the double ovals used early on by this firm. The ovals trap the firm’s name and location, “E.u.F. Hörster Solingen”. In the center is the large “H” which has a smaller “H” and “S” letter in between which is pierced by a sword.  A nice Hörster naval dagger here showing usage of the period but absolutely no abuse.