Germany, Third Reich. A Rare Postschutz Official’s Dagger, by Paul Weyersberg & Co.

(Postschutz Dolch). A rare and extremely well-preserved Postschutz Official’s dagger, measuring 39 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 24.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. The blade is plain with the exception of a maker’s mark on the reverse ricasso of “PAUL WEYERSBERG & CO., SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic wreathed sword logo. It sits securely within a nickel-silver crossguard which takes the form of a stylized eagle’s head with outstretched wings, the obverse of which bears a central black mobile swastika, with the seam covered by an intact black leather buffer pad. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of black painted wood, carved into a curvature for a comfortable and secure grip. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered Reichspost insignia measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h). The dagger finishes with a nickel-silver pommel that screws in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. Wrapped around the handle is a matching portepee, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn suspended from a strap of identical construction. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fittings are riveted to the tip, mid-section, and throat. Emanating from the latter two are loops which retain multi-link chains that meet at a functional spring catch for uniform suspension. The throat also has a functional spring catch which firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade and scratching of the handle and nickel-silver features. Nearly impossible to upgrade, this scarce dagger remains in an extremely fine condition.