Heer Army Dagger – Eickhorn

Product Description:  A Heer Army Dagger – Eickhorn, bearing the mark of Carl Eickhorn, presented in very good condition with a pleasing, untouched character. The grip displays a rich, deep pumpkin tone, though it exhibits a prominent crack and a material loss near the pommel, consistent with age and handling.

The blade shows noticeable spotting throughout but remains free of nicks along the cutting edge, preserving its overall form. The guard and pommel retain an attractive, even patina, with minor surface marks to the pommel commensurate with period use. The scabbard likewise shows areas of spotting and some denting along its length, and is lacking one of the two throat screws. Despite these condition points, the piece remains a solid and desirable example; this Heer Army Dagger – Eickhorn offers strong appeal for collectors seeking an honest, well-aged specimen, that would present well with the replacement of the grip.

Historical Description: After WWI, the German military, known as the Reichswehr, was restricted to a relatively small force. Hitler changed this in 1935, reintroducing universal military conscription, and creating a new German Armed Forces- the Wehrmacht. Within the Wehrmacht, the German Army was known as the Heer, and a new dagger was designed and introduced for the officers of this new German Army in May 1935. As with all German Army officer uniforms and accoutrements, they were not issued; rather, the officer had to purchase them. These were ceremonial and decorative pieces of regalia, that were worn on occasions that did not call for carrying a sword. The overall pattern and design of the dagger remained consistent throughout the production run, but the large number of individual manufacturers created a wide variety in detail, especially regarding the handle fittings. There were approximately 42 different manufacturers of the blades. There were construction changes over time as well. Early German Army daggers generally featured plated brass alloy handle fittings. Later, zinc was used. Wartime type scabbards were generally unplated, with a gray finish. Production of German Army daggers ceased around 1943. The German Army was a huge organization, and large numbers of these daggers were produced. But there were many specific variants that were produced in low numbers, especially the highest quality, luxury type pieces for well-heeled officers. Some daggers were personalized, and customized, and are unique. The striking and attractive design of the German Army dagger was well-received by officers at the time, and these are very sought-after by collectors today.

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