A very fine and fully preserved example of an NVA Officer’s Dagger Model M1960
for the Ground Forces of the German Democratic Republic (DDR).
The piece bears the serial number 34296 and comes with its
original silver-brocade hanger and manufacturer mark.
An authentic, numbered dagger in above-average condition.
Grip: White plastic grip of the typical NVA pattern, without wire wrapping,
featuring a cleanly fitted pommel cap. The nickel-plated fittings retain their
uniform, original surface. Upper and lower crossguards sit tight and without any play – a
characteristic quality feature of DDR production.
Blade: Double-edged, nickel-plated steel blade in very good condition,
free of nicks, chips, or deep stains. The serial number 34296 is located near the
shoulder / tang area. The blade sits firmly in the lower crossguard and reflects the clean,
period-correct workmanship typical of NVA manufacture.
Scabbard: Nickel-plated metal scabbard with applied oak-leaf style
ornamental bands. The surface is evenly preserved without dents or significant impact
marks. All fittings are properly screwed, and the side suspension ring is neatly
installed. A very coherent and untouched original scabbard.
Hanger: Original two-piece silver-brocade hanger of the NVA Ground Forces
with grey fabric backing. All metal components (hooks, sliders, buckles) are well preserved
and fully functional. The hanger matches the dagger both stylistically and structurally – a
complete and authentic set, increasingly difficult to find in this configuration.
Historical Note: The NVA Officer’s Dagger M1960
The Officer’s Dagger Model M1960 was introduced in the early 1960s as the
representative dress dagger of the National People’s Army (NVA) of the German Democratic
Republic. It served exclusively as a parade and dress dagger and was worn by
officers at official ceremonies, receptions, and with the formal dress uniform.
The version for the Ground Forces is the most common type, yet original,
numbered examples with complete hangers and correct manufacturer attribution are now
sought-after collector’s pieces. Collectors particularly value daggers that show no
post-war modifications, re-plating, or replaced hangers.
The M1960 dagger is one of the characteristic DDR dress weapons, reflecting
the military ceremonial culture of its time. In well-preserved original condition, it forms
an important reference piece within specialized NVA and DDR collections.
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