Germany, Heer. A Rare Model 21 Officer’s Sabre, by F.W. Höller

(Heer Offizierssäbel Modell 21). A rare and very well-preserved Model 21 Officer’s sabre, measuring 100.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features an 86 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to the tip. A fuller runs approximately two-thirds of the length of each side of the top edge. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “F.W. HÖLLER, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic thermometer logo. It sits securely within a multi-piece hilt, with an intact black leather buffer pad covering the seam. The crossguard features a hooked quillon in the form of a lion’s head, with the obverse bearing a finely-detailed Heer-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika. The reverse of the crossguard bears an unblemished oval medallion for the optional addition of engraved owner’s initials. A spine extends from the crossguard and is decorated with raised oak leaves, ultimately culminating in a lion’s head retaining two striking red cut glass jewels inset into the eyes. A hand guard emanates from the lion’s mouth in a wide arc and connects to the crossguard. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of ribbed black celluloid, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled bronze wire cord. Wrapped around the hilt is a matching portepee, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn suspended from a grey leather strap, in turn decorated with partially-intact silver-grey threaded tresses. Accompanying the sabre is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. The upper quarter of the shaft retains dual integral loops for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional catch situated within the throat firmly holds the sabre in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some tarnishing of the blade, material fatigue to the portepee, sporadic loss of scabbard paint, and the partial detachment of the throat catch which can protrude through the opening (but which remains fully functional when retracted). This scarce and high-quality example of a classic Officer’s design issued by the noted firm of F.W. Höller remains in a near extremely fine condition.