Germany, DLV. A Flyer’s Knife, by F. & A. Helbig

(Deutscher Luftsportverband Fliegermesser). An extremely well-preserved Deutscher Luftsportverband (German Air Sports Association/DLV) Flyer’s Knife, measuring 34 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 17.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “F. & A. HELBIG, STEINBACH (KR. M)”, circumscribing the firm’s “GAEGLER” trade name. It sits securely within a nickel-silver crossguard which takes the form of a pair of stylized wings, bearing double-sided central black mobile swastikas, with the seam covered by an intact dark blue Moroccan leather liner. The handle grip consists of a wooden core wrapped in a dark blue Moroccan leather liner. It completes with a cascading, rounded pommel which screws in to maintain the knife’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft with a dark blue Moroccan leather liner. Nickel-silver fittings are secured to both the tip and throat. A loop emanates from the latter for the accommodation of a hanger, which is included and consists of a black leather strap culminating in a functional silvered spring clip for uniform suspension. The throat has a functional spring catch to firmly hold the knife in place during storage, with the outer edge stamped with a classic DLV insignia. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade and material fatigue of the leather elements. It remains in an extremely fine condition.