2nd Model Luftwaffe Miniature Dagger -SMF

Product Description: This 2nd Model Luftwaffe Miniature Dagger is nice and clean, with great eye appeal. It’s a three-quarter sized type. The blade is bright, with great luster and no damage. It’s stamped on the ricasso with the maker mark of SMF, as well as “D.R.G.M.” indicating a Reich trademarked design. The handle is gorgeous. The crossguard and pommel show great detail. Original dark finish in the recesses creates contrast and a look of depth. The oak leaves on the ferrule are intricately executed. The grip is a very appealing, even, pumpkin orange color, with no chips or cracks. The grip wire is intact, with no issues. This 2nd Model Luftwaffe Miniature Dagger is complete with its original scabbard. The scabbard is complete and undamaged, with loads of nice detail to the ornamentation. This is a choice example of this scarce miniature type. The condition rates as excellent.

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 down swept, 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.

Feel free to email us directly: info@epicartifacts.com