Yugoslavia, Kingdom. A Royal Air Force Model 1937 Dagger

A well-preserved Royal Yugoslav Air Force Model 1937 dagger, measuring 410 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 250 mm-long nickel-plated magnetic metal dagger with a sharpened tip and semi-sharpened edges. Fully unmarked, the blade sits securely within a nickel-plated non-ferrous metal alloy upper crossguard, fashioned into a stylized propeller at both the obverse and reverse. The handle grip is composed of a strip of ribbed and boiled dark blue leather, wrapped in an original wire cord. It completes with a stylized pommel, featuring floral designs around the circumference of the exterior, which screws in place and securely maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft with an boiled dark blue leather exterior liner. Three nickel-plated non-ferrous metal fixtures are secured to the shaft. The fixtures situated at the mid-section and throat features integrated loops for suspension from a dagger hander, while the obverse of the latter bears a raised Yugoslav Royal Air Force insignia. The throat also retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. Some issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include minor running marks and oxidation to the blade, fatigue of the leather features, and some loss of finish to the nickel-plated metal. It is in an overall better than very fine condition.