Czechoslovakia, Protectorate Of Bohemia And Moravia. A M39 Government Dagger, By A. Mrazek

A well-preserved Protectorate of Bohemia and Moravia M39 government dagger, measuring 380 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 220 mm-long tapering magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. The reverse ricasso is stamped with a maker’s mark of “A. MRAZEK, SLANÝ”. It sits securely within a gilded bronze crossguard, with the obverse featuring a clamshell-style decoration bearing raised linden leaves. The crossguard connects to a handle constructed of a stylized gilded bronze frame with a light brown celluloid core, and completes in a flattened pommel. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a reinforced shaft with a dark brown suede liner, bearing bronze linden leaf fixtures at the tip, mid-section, and throat. The throat retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. Also emanating from the throat and mid-section fixtures are triangular loops connecting to a period original hanger consisting of two brown leather straps, each adjusted with functional bronze buckles, completing in a functional spring clip of identical construction. Minor issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include some oxidation of the bronze features, as well as fatigue to the scabbard. It is in an overall near extremely fine condition.