Latvia. A National Socialist Government Official’s Dagger by E. & F. Hörster, c.1940

An example of a scarce second war period Latvian National Socialist Government Official’s Dagger by a renowned manufacturer of edged weapons. It measures 370 mm with the scabbard on, and featuring a 248 mm long nickel-plated steel blade, with factory un-sharpened edges, but a slightly bent tip. The blade is diamond shaped, with dual blood grooves on either side of the blade, and is marked “E. & F. Hörster, Solingen” on the reverse recasso. The blade itself retains nearly all of its original glossy finish, with only light signs of oxidation where the finish has worn, and only light scratches common to extraction and return to the scabbard. The green felt washer is original to the dagger and sits in its place. The crossguard is constructed of gilt bronze, featuring a swastika on the obverse, and a Latvian Coat of Arms on the reverse. The grip is constructed of creme-coloured celluloid and features burnished details, which, although still visible, have mostly worn away through age and wear. The pommel is that of the screw-on type, and is also constructed of gilt bronze, in the shape of a pine cone. The scabbard is constructed of thick and stiff brown leather, with matching gilt bronze fittings that feature two loops for attachment to a dagger hanger, measuring 256 mm long. Overall this is a well preserved example of a Latvian Government Official’s Dagger, with some signs of wear and age, including some slight loss to the original gilt finish throughout, as well as a nick in the leather of the scabbard; in overall better than very fine condition.