Germany, DRK. A Rare Leader’s Dagger, with Knot

(Deutsches Rotes Kreuz Dolch für Führer). A Deutsches Rotes Kreuz (German Red Cross/DRK) Leader’s Dagger, measuring 38 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. Fully unmarked, the blade sits securely within a multi-piece hilt, featuring a nickel-plated alloy crossguard bearing double-sided oval medallion, with the obverse bearing a raised DRK-style German national eagle. An intact blackened leather buffer pad covers the seam where the dagger meets the hilt. A single piece of ribbed light brown celluloid composes the handle grip, while the dagger culminates in a wide, flattened pommel which retains an original pommel nut. Wrapped around the handle is a matching knot, consisting of a stylized silver aluminum wire acorn suspended from a cors of identical construction, interspersed with red threading. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a pebbled and nickel-plated magnetic metal shaft. Two integral bands situated at the upper third of the shaft feature rectangular loops for the addition of a hanger, while a functional catch within the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include slight loosening of the pommel and some loss of finish to the scabbard. This rare dagger issued to a high-ranking DAK official remains in an extremely fine condition.