2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger

Product Description: This is a striking and well-preserved example of a 2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger, notable for its attractive aesthetics and honest character. The blade remains bright and clean, exhibiting only typical runner marks and some light gray spotting from age. It is unmarked, a characteristic occasionally seen on wartime production pieces. Despite the absence of a maker’s mark, the blade retains sharp geometry and a clean edge, indicative of careful handling over the years.

The grip is a beautiful light honey tone, which has mellowed attractively with age. There is a small chip on the reverse side of the grip, visible but not detracting from the dagger’s overall display appeal. The twisted silver wire wrap remains tight and intact, though under close inspection it appears to have been repaired at some point—an older restoration that blends in well and does not distract from the presentation. The metal fittings are exceptionally detailed, with only minimal wear to the high points. The crossguard eagle is particularly eye-catching, featuring crisp feathering and striking contrast between the bright high areas and the dark patina in the recessed portions, lending it a dramatic and visually compelling appearance.

Crowning the hilt is a beautifully preserved pommel adorned with a bold, gold-toned swastika on each side. The gilding is vivid and richly colored, creating a stunning contrast against the surrounding aluminum and adding a distinctive touch of elegance and authority to the piece.

The scabbard is straight and undamaged, retaining a deep, uncleaned patina that enhances its sense of authenticity and historical presence. Both hanger rings are present and in excellent condition, showing only minor signs of age. Overall, this Second Model Luftwaffe Dagger is in excellent condition and serves as a highly attractive and representative example of the 2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger—an ideal acquisition for both seasoned collectors and those seeking a distinguished and visually compelling artifact from the Third Reich period.

Historical Description: The Luftwaffe dagger was a piece of regalia with a unique history. After WWI, Germany was prohibited from having an Air Force. In 1933, the Nazis formed the Deutscher Luftsport-Verband (DLV), which was a paramilitary aviation organization. DLV officers wore a long dagger. In 1935, in violation of the Treaty of Versailles, Hitler instituted the new German armed forces, the Wehrmacht. One of the branches of the Wehrmacht was the Luftwaffe. Luftwaffe officers at this time wore what we know as the first model Luftwaffe dagger. This was a shortened version of the earlier DLV dagger. It featured a scabbard covered in blue leather, and a blue, wire-wrapped grip. The crossguard featured a round, “sunwheel” type swastika, flanked by downswept, stylized “wings.” The pommel was in the form of a vertical disc, with another, larger “sunwheel” swastika. In 1937, the Luftwaffe instituted a new dagger form, known to collectors as the second model. This new dagger was similar to that worn by officers of the German Army. The second model had a metal scabbard with impressed decoration, and no leather covering. The crossguard bore a Luftwaffe eagle, clutching a swastika. The blue grip was replaced with one that was orange, white or yellow. The various types of grips were a matter of personal preference and did not indicate branch or rank. The pommel of the new dagger featured a swastika within an oak leaves motif. The blades of these daggers were steel, and many but not all were manufacturer marked.

We are the leading team of military antique specialists. We have specialized in military antiques for over 25 years.

Epic Artifacts offers free evaluations and the highest prices available for your collectibles.

We purchase single items, entire collections, or family estates.

Click the link here to learn more: Free Evaluation or Inquiries

or feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com