Naval Edged Weapons – Imperial Navy to Kriegsmarine

Read more ▼

History & Development

Officers of the Imperial German Navy wore richly decorated naval officer’s daggers and naval swords since the 19th century—primarily as status symbols with dress and gala uniforms. The tradition continued in the Reichsmarine (1919–1935) and culminated under the Kriegsmarine (1935–1945).

Key Characteristics

• Gilded / silvered fittings and detailed ornamentation
• White grips (ivory, bone, or celluloid)
• Etched blades with maritime motifs: anchors, waves, ropes, sailing ships
• Special variants incl. the “lightning-bolt” scabbard

Recognized Models

• Naval Officer’s Dagger Model 1901 (Imperial Navy)
• Naval Officer’s Dagger Model 1938 (Kriegsmarine, often with oak-leaf motifs)
• Early/1st Imperial pattern; later/2nd pattern Kriegsmarine daggers
• Rare presentation pieces with special etches

Manufacturers

Predominantly produced in Solingen by renowned makers such as WKC, Carl Eickhorn, F. W. Höller, E. & F. Hörster, and Carl Julius Krebs. Complete sets with portepee, hangers, and original scabbards are particularly sought after.

Authenticity & Collector Notes

• Assess the blade etch (naval scenes, maker’s mark, period details).
• Portepee and hangers significantly increase value.
• Condition of the original gilding is crucial for pricing.
• Beware of reproductions—expert verification is recommended.

naval officer’s dagger for sale, original Kriegsmarine naval officer’s dagger 1938, Imperial Navy officer’s dagger 1901, German navy dagger with hangers, naval dagger with portepee, naval dagger value, WKC naval dagger, Carl Eickhorn navy dagger, FW Höller naval dagger, E. & F. Hörster dagger, Carl Julius Krebs naval dagger, Kriegsmarine sword buy, early naval dagger, late naval dagger, identify naval dagger, German naval edged weapons