Naval Edged Weapons – Imperial Navy to Kriegsmarine

Naval Edged Weapons – From the Imperial Navy to the Kriegsmarine

Naval edged weapons have a long tradition reaching back to the 19th century. In the Imperial German Navy, ornate naval daggers and naval swords were worn not as combat knives but as status symbols and parts of dress and gala uniforms. The practice continued in the Reichsmarine (1919–1935) and culminated with the Kriegsmarine (1935–1945).

Hallmarks include gilt fittings, white grips (ivory, bone, celluloid) and richly decorated etched blades with maritime motifs such as anchors, ropework, wave patterns and sailing ships. The best-known patterns are the Model 1901 Naval Officer’s Dagger and the Model 1938 Kriegsmarine Officer’s Dagger. Collectors also value the 1st Imperial model, the 2nd model and the distinctive “lightning-bolt” scabbard.

Production was centered in Solingen, with renowned makers like WKC, Carl Eickhorn, F. W. Höller, E. & F. Hörster, Paul Weyersberg and Carl Julius Krebs. Original German naval daggers with hangers, portepee and original scabbard are highly sought-after collectibles today.

We Buy Naval Daggers, Swords and German Naval Edged Weapons

Looking to sell an original German naval dagger or a naval edged weapon? We are your reliable partner for the purchase of naval edged weapons — from single pieces to entire collections. Discreet, fair and experienced.

What we are looking for:

• Imperial Navy daggers (1st & 2nd models)
• Reichsmarine daggers and swords (1919–1935)
• Model 1901 Naval Officer’s Dagger and Model 1938 Kriegsmarine Officer’s Dagger
• Kriegsmarine daggers with lightning-bolt scabbard or etched anchor blades
• Complete sets with hangers, portepee and original scabbard
• Makers: WKC, Eickhorn, Höller, Hörster, Paul Weyersberg, C. J. Krebs and more
• Rare variants, engravings, dedications and special executions

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Frequently Asked Questions about German Naval Edged Weapons