Here we have a superb example of the early First Pattern Luftwaffe Dress Dagger, produced by the renowned maker Paul Weyersberg & Co, of Solingen. This particular dagger is for the collectors who appreciate the untouched, sleepy, uncleaned look. I personally really enjoy these untouched pieces.

Grip & Fittings:

The blue moroccan leather grip remains in excellent condition, showing only light surface wear from age. The twisted grip wire is complete, nice and tight, and fits as it should. The nickle fittings display a wonderful uncleaned patina – darker in some areas and lighter in others. What’s particularly nice about this example is that both the crossguard and pommel still retain traces of the original factory frosting – something we don’t see very often. The crossguard and pommel show the high quality brass sunwheel swastika, only seen on these earl examples.

Blade:

The blade is in excellent condition, retaining a mirror bright finish on both sides. It is unsharpened and has a good point. The ricasso bears the clearly etched Paul Weyersberg & Co, Solingen logo, one of the most respected manufacturers of the period, known for in-house production and superb craftsmanship. Under the original leather buffer pad, we find the unit number “4425”, another bonus that adds to the piece.

Scabbard & Chain:

The scabbard leather is in very good condition, free from tears or splits, and fits the blade snugly. Both upper and lower nickle fittings display a nice patina, with all original screws intact and never turned. The piece comes complete with its original nickle chain, which is also uncleaned and displays patina. To finish the piece off, it has a leather belt loop attached to the chain buckle, and a correct first-pattern Luftwaffe portepee (knot), with this particular example being shorter than we normally encounter.

Summary:

A superb, totally untouched early Luftwaffe dagger, with a bright near mint blade, deep patination to the fittings, with correct knot and belt loop. Great example.

Historical Note:

The First Pattern Luftwaffe Dagger was introduced in 1934 for officers of Germany’s air force. Its design, influenced by both aviation and classical art deco motifs, was intended to reflect the modern, elite image of the Luftwaffe. The use of nickle fittings, blue leather, and gilded sunwheel emblems symbolised status and pride. In 1937, the design was replaced by the second pattern.