An extremely well-preserved Milizia Volontaria per la Sicurezza Nazionale (Voluntary Militia for National Security/MSVN) “Blackshirts” Model 1937 Leader’s Dagger, measuring 35 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 19.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and upper edge. The blade sits securely within an aluminum hilt with a hooked quillon and pommel that presents as a double-sided eagle’s head. The handle grip consists of two pieces of black celluloid inset into the hilt, both of which sit fully flush. Riveted to the obverse of the handle is a gilded Partito Nazionale Fascista, measuring 12 mm (w) x 26 mm (h). The dagger is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a lacquered black magnetic metal shaft. Gilded bronze fixtures are secured to the shaft at the tip, mid-section, and throat. Emanating from the latter two are loops for the accommodation of a hanger. The throat retains a partially-functional spring catch to hold the dagger in place during storage. Minor running marks are visible to the blade, and the throat’s spring catch has weakened, but the dagger remains in an overall extremely fine condition.
It is accompanied by a matching hanger, consisting of a functional gilded bronze spring clip decorated on the obverse with a raised Italian national eagle. A narrow loop set into the bottom edge of the clip accommodates two leather straps, topped by a gilded monogram of Benito Mussolini, with each strap completing in a functional bronze spring clip to lock onto the scabbard’s loops. Unmarked, minor tarnishing and material fatigue is visible to the bronze fixtures and leather straps, respectively, but the hanger remains in an overall near extremely fine condition.