Germany, Kriegsmarine. An Officer’s Dress Dagger, by Clemen & Jung

(Kriegsmarine Dolch für Offiziere). An extremely well-preserved Kriegsmarine Officer’s dress dagger, measuring 42 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 25.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade which retains factory-original sharpening to the tip. Dual narrow fullers run the majority of the length of each side of the blade, which also bears double-sided, acid-etched imagery consisting of fouled anchors flanked by serpents and arabesque latticework. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “CLEMEN & JUNG, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s monogram. The blade sits securely within a gilded brass crossguard which bears double-sided central fouled anchors, with an intact leather buffer pad covering the seam. Inset into the reverse of the crossguard is a functional push-button connecting to a spring release emanating from the ricasso to release the scabbard lock. A single piece of ribbed off-white celluloid composes the handle grip, with the ribbing retaining an original twisted and rolled wire cord. The dagger culminates in a gilded brass pommel in the form of a German national eagle perched on top of a wreathed mobile swastika, screwing in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a gilded brass shaft with etched imagery decorating the outer circumference. Two integral oak leaf bands are situated just below the throat, each with a ring for the inclusion of a hanger. The throat retains a functional catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Demonstrating no notable damage or wear, this example, produced by a scarce manufacturer, remains in an extremely fine condition.