Royal Bulgarian Dagger M1938 for members of the "Arbeitsfront"
Bulgaria Dagger M1938 for Members of the Labor Front (Model 1938). Total length: 41.2 cm.
An authentic period example worn by officers of the Bulgarian Labor Front between 1938 and 1945.
Grip: Light-colored synthetic grip with spiral grooves and double wire wrap.
The pommel is shaped like a royal crown (cast brass), while the lower ferrule features a
raised oak leaf pattern.
The solid crossguard is made of non-ferrous metal: one side shows a slightly downward-facing
lion’s head, the reverse side depicts a stylized shovel and pickaxe.
At the center is a rectangular white metal plate displaying the Bulgarian coat of arms
(the reverse side plain).
The grip shows age-related cracks and small chips but remains stable and well preserved.
Blade: Double-edged thrusting blade in good condition with precise geometry and fine polish.
No maker’s mark – typical for many Bulgarian military daggers of this period.
The blade shoulders fit perfectly into the lower crossguard.
Scabbard: Constructed from steel sheet with a smooth surface;
two applied mounting bands with movable suspension rings.
Rounded tip, fittings decorated with characteristic oak leaf motifs.
On the obverse is a rectangular white metal plaque featuring the Labor Front emblem
and the motto “Work for Bulgaria!” / “ТРУДЪ ЗА БЪЛГАРИЯ”.
The upper throat piece is separately inserted and secured by side screws.
Note: Suspension hanger not included.
Historical Context: Bulgarian Labor Front Dagger (M1938)
The Bulgarian Labor Front Dagger (M1938) was introduced as part of the
uniform reform of the Kingdom of Bulgaria in 1938. It was worn by officers of the
Trudov Front (“Labor Front”), a paramilitary organization responsible for
major state construction and infrastructure projects.
The design follows the general pattern of contemporary Bulgarian army daggers,
but features distinctive Labor Front symbolism – such as the shovel and pickaxe
motif and the patriotic motto „ТРУДЪ ЗА БЪЛГАРИЯ“ (“Work for Bulgaria”).
With its elaborate brass fittings, crown-shaped pommel and
lion-head crossguard, the dagger represents a fine example of Bulgarian
craftsmanship of the late interwar period. Today, the M1938 Labor Front Dagger is regarded
as one of the rarest and most sought-after Bulgarian edged weapons among
collectors of European militaria.
![Bulgarian Royal Infantry Dagger [M1936]](https://www.dg.de/media/images/product/thumb/koenigreich-bulgarien-dolch-heeresoffiziere-1936-3911-1.jpg)
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