Germany, DLV. A Rare Flyer’s Knife, by F.& A. Helbig

(Deutscher Luftsportverband Fliegermesser). An extremely well-preserved Deutscher Luftsportverband (German Air Sports Association/DLV) Flyer’s Knife, measuring 34 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 17 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. Acid-etched onto the reverse ricasso is a maker’s mark of “F. & A. HELBIG STEINBACH KR. M.”, circumscribing the firm’s “GAEGLER” trade name which is executed in cursive script. The blade sits securely within a nickel-silver crossguard which takes the form of a pair of stylized wings, in turn bearing double-sided central black mobile swastika, with an intact dark blue Moroccan leather buffer pad covering the seam. The handle consists of a wooden core with a gentle curvature, fully lined with a dark blue Moroccan leather grip. It completes with a rounded nickel-silver pommel which screws into the tang to maintain the knife’s structural integrity. Accompanying the knife is its original scabbard, constructed of a magnetic metal shaft lined on the exterior with dark blue Moroccan leather. Nickel-silver fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with side rivets. Emanating from the latter is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger, itself constructed of a brown leather strap connecting to a functional nickel-silver spring clip for uniform attachment. Stamped onto the throat is a DLV insignia, while a functional catch situated within the interior firmly holds the knife in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include faint running marks to the blade, a consistent patina throughout the nickel-silver fixtures, and minor material fatigue to the leather elements. This rare and untouched example remains in an extremely fine condition.