Eickhorn 2nd Model KM Dagger with Hangers & Portepee

Product Description: This Eickhorn 2nd Model KM Dagger is an outstanding and very desirable piece, loaded with eye appeal. The etched blade is in fantastic condition, rating near mint. All of the original luster is still present, with full original darkening to the etching. The blade ricasso is stamped with the commercial type “squirrel” maker mark of the firm of Carl Eickhorn, in Solingen. The button and latch for the scabbard is functional. The handle on this dagger is very nice, and features a lovely grip with no chips or cracks. The grip wire is intact, with some old patina built up in the crevices of the grip. The metal fittings retain nearly all of the original finish, with some very minor spots of verdigris. The handle is complete with the original portepee, which shows wear and some fraying. There is a neatly done repair to the portepee cords, that appears very old. This Eickhorn 2nd Model KM Dagger is complete with its original scabbard. The scabbard has a great, uncleaned look, with some light toning and plenty of original luster. The brass retaining rings on the scabbard still have the original hangers. The velvet backed, woven hanger straps show some wear, while the metal fittings on the hangers still retain nearly all of the original gilding. The detailed lion’s head buckles are perfect. This dagger is a really nice, complete rig, and a great representative piece for display. The condition rates as excellent plus.

Historical Description: The German Navy adopted the use of a dress dagger for its officers in the 19th century. In 1935, the Nazi leadership reintroduced universal conscription for German men as part of a plan to greatly expand German military power. The German Navy became part of the new Wehrmacht and was renamed the “Kriegsmarine.” The leadership of the Kriegsmarine was largely very traditional and initially retained many pre-Nazi traditions including the traditional dress dagger which was unchanged since WWI. But in 1938, a new dagger was introduced for the Kriegsmarine, that bore the Nazi swastika emblem. This pattern of dress dagger is known today as the Second Model Navy Dagger. The earlier “flaming ball” device used on the first model pommel was replaced with a German national eagle emblem clutching a wreathed swastika. The crossguard on the second model Navy dagger was longer than that found on the first pattern. The standard blade was acid etched with a fouled anchor and ornate foliage pattern. Because it was expected that these daggers would be worn at sea, all parts with the exception of the blade were initially made from brass. The Second Model Navy Dagger was made by more than a dozen manufacturers in a number of variants until the end of WWII. As with all officer dress daggers, they were not issued, but were private purchase items. Officers could customize these to suit their own tastes by upgrading them and customizing them in various ways.

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