Germany, Luftwaffe. An Officer’s Dress Dagger, by F.W. Höller

(Luftwaffe Dolch für Offiziere). A Luftwaffe Officer’s dress dagger, measuring 42 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 26 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains some factory-original sharpening to the edges and tip. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “F.W. HÖLLER, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic thermometer logo with 17 ticks. The blade sits securely within an aluminum crossguard, the obverse of which bears a raised Luftwaffe eagle clutching a mobile swastika, with the seam covered by an intact blackened leather buffer pad. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of ribbed off-white celluloid, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled wire cord. It culminates in an aluminum pommel in the form of a double-sided wreathed mobile swastika, screwing in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a pebbled and plated magnetic metal shaft. Dual integral oak leaf bands are situated just below the throat, each retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional catch within the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and possible refurbishment are evident, and include polishing of the blade, loosening of the hilt, and loss of plating throughout the scabbard. The dagger remains in a very fine condition.