Germany, Luftwaffe. An Officer’s Dress Dagger, with Hanger, by Robert Klaas

(Heer Dolch für Offiziere mit Gehänge). A well-preserved Luftwaffe Officer’s dress dagger, measuring 43 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 27.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains some factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. The obverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “ROB’T KLAAS, SOLINGEN” for the firm of Robert Klaas, topped by the company’s classic mirrored crane logo. It 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. A single piece of ribbed off-white celluloid composes the handle grip, with the ribbon retaining an original twisted and rolled silver aluminum wire cord. It culminates in an aluminum alloy pommel in the form of double-sided wreathed mobile swastikas, screwing in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a pebbled and nickel-plated magnetic steel shaft. Dual integral oak leaf bands are set in place just below the throat, each retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional catch situated within the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, softening and scratching of the handle, possible re-assembly with the blade now situated backwards, and a consistent patina throughout the scabbard. It remains in a near extremely fine condition.

Also accompanying the dagger is a matching hanger, consisting of a functional aluminum spring clip with dual loops emanating from the lower edge. Each loop retains a slate-grey doeskin strap topped by a layer of dark grey rayon threading, in turn trimmed with silver aluminum wire tresses. Each strap is adjusted with a functional aluminum buckle decorated with raised oak leaves, and culminates in a functional aluminum spring clip. Unmarked, the hanger measures 27 cm in total length as presented. Demonstrating moderate material fatigue throughout, it remains in a very fine condition.