Germany, Luftwaffe. A First Pattern Dagger, Etched & Owner-Attributed Example, by Stöcker & Co.

(Luftwaffe Fliegerdolch). An extremely well-preserved Luftwaffe Flyer’s Dagger, measuring 49 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 31 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and unspoiled edges. Acid-etched onto the obverse scabbard is an owner’s name of “ROLF GROßMANN”, flanked on each side by intricate arabesque latticework which directs the viewer’s attention to the inscription. The reverse bears an acid-etched, first pattern, droptail-style Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika, similarly situated within arabesque latticework. The reverse ricasso is maker marked with the classic seated king Solinger Metallwaren-Fabrik (SMF) logo of Stöcker & Co., Solingen. The blade sits securely within an aluminum crossguard, taking the form of a pair of downward-pointing wings, featuring double-sided central gilt sunwheel-style mobile swastikas. Wrapped around the crossguard is a matching portepee, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn suspended from a cord of identical construction. The handle grip is composed of a sturdy wooden core fully lined on the exterior with a ribbed dark blue Moroccan leather liner, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled wire cord. It completes with a rounded aluminum pommel, bearing double-sided gilt sunwheel-style mobile swastikas, screwing in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft and fully lined on the exterior with a dark blue Moroccan leather liner. Aluminum fixtures are secured to the tip, mid-section, and throat with side rivets. Emanating from the latter two are integral loops retaining rings, in turn accommodating two chain links which culminate in a functional spring clip for uniform suspension. The throat retains a functional catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some runnins marks to the blade, with moderate fatigue of the leather liners. A scarce owner-attributed example in near extremely fine condition.