Daggers of the Army, Marine & Airforce

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History & Development

Since the 19th century, military daggers and swords have been an integral part of German armed forces. In the Imperial Navy, richly decorated officer’s daggers symbolized status and tradition. The Reichswehr continued this custom, which reached its peak with the Kriegsmarine (1935–1945). The Army introduced the Army Officer’s Dagger Model 1935, while the Luftwaffe followed with its characteristic 1st Model 1935 and 2nd Model 1937 daggers.

Typical Features

• Army (Heer): Eagle on the grip, white/ivory grip, aluminum or nickel fittings.
• Luftwaffe: Crossguard shaped like wings, blue leather-covered grip & scabbard, portepee.
• Navy (Kriegsmarine): Gilded fittings, white grips (ivory, bone, celluloid), richly etched blades with anchors, waves, ships.
• Special variants: Lightning-Bolt scabbard, etched presentation blades, rare maker marks.

Notable Makers

The majority of these edged weapons were produced in Solingen by renowned firms such as Carl Eickhorn, WKC, F.W. Höller, E. & F. Hörster, Carl Julius Krebs and PUMA.

Collector’s Notes

• Original etchings, maker marks and early material types are key to authenticity.
• Complete sets with hangers, portepee and original scabbards are highly desirable.
• Differences between early, mid and late production phases influence value.
• Professional expertise helps to identify authentic pieces vs. reproductions.

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