Germany, Kriegsmarine. An Officer’s Dagger

(Kriegsmarine Offiziersdolch). A well-preserved Kriegsmarine Officer’s dagger, measuring 420 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. The dagger features a 250 mm-long polished magnetic metal blade, with dual fullers on each side. Unmarked, the dagger sits securely within the stylized gilded bronze upper crossguard, each side of which bears central raised anchors, covered by an intact buffer pad. Inset into the reverse of the crossguard is a push-button connecting to a functional spring clip emanating from the ricasso of the blade. This clip meets a loop at the throat of the scabbard, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. The handle grip is composed of a piece of ribbed light orange celluloid, around which is wrapped a length of twisted and rolled copper wire. It completes with a pommel consisting of a gilt German national eagle, perched on top of a wreathed mobile swastika. The eagle also functions as a pommel nut, securely maintaining the structural integrity of the dagger. Wrapped around the upper crossguard is a Kriegsmarine-style portepee, consisting of multiple rows of twisted and rolled silver aluminum wire completing in a stylized acorn. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a gilded bronze shaft etched with floral and lightning bolt designs. The upper third of the scabbard bears integrated rings in the form of raised oak leaves, each with two bronze loops for the accommodation of a dagger hanger. The throat is held together by dual side rivets. While well-preserved, the dagger displays some issues consistent with age and use. This includes evidence of polishing and oxidation abatement to the blade, resulting in some pitting, as well as some oxidation and loss of finish to the bronze elements. It is in an overall very fine condition.