Germany, Kriegsmarine. An Officer’s Dress Dagger, with Hanger, by F.W. Höller

(Kriegsmarine Dolch für Offiziere mit Gehänge). An exceptionally well-preserved Kriegsmarine Officer’s dress dagger, measuring 41.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. Dual narrow fullers are set into each side of the blade, which also bears double-sided acid-etched designs consisting of nautical imagery in the form of a ship and fouled anchor, flanked on each side by arabesque latticework. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “F.W. HÖLLER, SOLIGNEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic thermometer logo, executed with 17 notches. The blade sits securely within a gilded brass crossguard, bearing double-sided central fouled anchors, with an intact blackened leather buffer pad covering the seam. Inset into the reverse of the crossguard is a functional bush-button release connecting to a clip which emanates from the ricasso to release the scabbard lock. A single piece of ribbed white celluloid composes the handle grip, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled bronze wire core. The dagger culminates in a gilded brass pommel in the form of a German national eagle perched on top of a wreathed mobile swastika, screwing in to maintain its structural integrity. Wrapped around the crossguard and pommel is a matching portpee, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn suspended from a cord of identical construction. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a gilded brass shaft decorated with etched designs around the outer circumference. Two integral oak leaf bands situated just below the throat retain loops for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional catch situated with the throat locks onto the blade’s clip. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade and minor material fatigue to the portepee. A striking example of an Officer’s accoutrement, this dagger remains in an extremely fine condition.

Also accompanying the dagger is a matching hanger, consisting of black rayon straps with black doeskin underlays. Each strap features a gilded double lion head buckle, allowing the lengths to be adjusted according to the wearer’s desire. Both culminate in functional gilded spring clips to lock onto the scabbard’s loops and the wearer’s uniform. Unmarked, each length demonstrates no notable damage or wear, with the set similarly presenting in an extremely fine condition.