Germany, Luftwaffe. An Officer’s Sword, by SMF Solingen

(Luftwaffe Schwert für Offiziere). An early Luftwaffe Officer’s sword, measuring 93 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 71.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade. A fuller runs approximately half of the length of each side of the blade. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “SMF SOLINGEN” and the firm’s classic seated logo, in turn topped by a partially-visible Luftwaffe acceptance stamp. The blade sits partially removed from an aluminum crossguard which consists of a pair of stylized wings with feathering executed in exceptional detail, in turn bearing double-sided central sunwheel-style mobile swastikas highlighted in gilt. A worn dark blue Moroccan leather buffer pad covers the seam where the blade enters the crossguard. The handle grip consists of a curved wooden core lined on the exterior with a ribbed dark blue Moroccan leather liner, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled wire cord. It culminates in an aluminum alloy pommel, taking the form of a flattened disc which bears double-sided sunwheel-style mobile swastika highlighted in gilt, with the outer edges decorated with etched acorns and oak leaves. The pommel screws in to firmly maintain the sword’s structural integrity. Accompanying the sword is its original scabbard, constructed of a metal shaft which is fully lined on the exterior with a worn dark blue Moroccan leather liner. Nickel-plated fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with side rivets. Two integral loops emanate from the side of the throat fixture and retain rings which connect to an original hanger, constructed of multiple panels of dark blue Moroccan leather, topped by a loop for uniform suspension. Issues consistent with age and extensive wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, cuts and abrasions to leather, remains fine.