Italy, Kingdom. A Rare Model 1937 MVSN Officer’s Dagger

A rare and well-preserved Model 1937 Milizia Volontaria per la Sicurezza Nazional (Voluntary Militia for National Security/MVSN) Officer’s dagger, measuring 34.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 20 cm-long nickel-plated magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and lower edge. Fully unmarked, the blade sits securely within a one-piece aluminum hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel, with the latter presenting as a stylized eagle’s head. The handle grip consists of two pieces of black bakelite, secured together with a single rivet. Inset into the obverse is a gilded Partito Nazionale Fascista (National Fascist Party/PNF) insignia, measuring 12 mm (w) x 25 mm (h). It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Bronzed fixtures are secured to the tip, mid-section, and throat. The latter two features integral loops which accommodate a hanger constructed of bronzed aluminum chain links, culminating in the monogram of Benito Mussolini, which in turn descends from a PNF-style Italian national eagle. The reverse of the eagle insignia features a functional spring catch for uniform suspension. Minor issues consistent with age and wea are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, scratching of the aluminum hilt, and loss of paint to the scabbard shaft. This scarce dagger is in an overall near extremely fine condition.