Original Item: Only One Available. Under provisions of the decree of 17 June 1936 Reichsführer-SS, Heinrich Himmler assumed full power over the entire German police organization and as such many members of the police held dual membership in the Police and SS.  This sword is an example of this dual membership policy.

This is a genuine vintage World War II German SS Police Officer's Degen (Épée) Dress Sword, made by the well-known Solingen-based firm of Hermann Rath. It is still in very good condition, looking to have seen moderate use at formal events. The steel fittings and the "D" guard are still present, with a lovely lightly oxidized patina. There are some areas of wear through on the edges, which has allowed the base metal to rust just a bit.

The "D" guard is in wonderful condition, ending in the usual teardrop quillon. The ferrule is crisp, decorated with six standing oak leaves separated by acorns which show a great patina. The ebony grip is in very good condition, showing moderate overall wear and what looks to possibly be residue from past polishing. The inset Police Civic eagle insignia is also in fine condition, and looks to be aluminum, with antiquing in the recesses of the design. There are no cracks, chips, or other damage to the wood of the grip.

The 31” blade is in good condition with little oxidation and without any chips to the edge of the blade. The leather buffer is still fully intact. The ricasso is marked:

HERM. RATH
SOLINGEN

Under this is the SS-Kulturzeichen proof marking in a diamond. Hermann Rath, Waffenfabrik (Weapons factory) was one of only seventeen Solingen firms listed in the 1941 edition of the DRAB as manufacturers of edged weapons. This firm seems to have supplied officers’ and NCO swords to the SS and Police, as many examples have been recorded. For more information please see GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS by J. Anthony Carter.

The scabbard is in very good condition, and the black enamel finish on the steel body of the scabbard is retained at over 50%, with heavy wear and chipping. Both flush mount retaining screws are still present. The upper mount is in the "Wotan's Knot" configuration, which is also nickel plated. It is in very good condition, showing some oxidation and wear, especially on the top where it contacts the leather blade buffer. It still has both retaining screws still present inside of the "knot" on both sides.

These SS police swords are quite rare and desirable, and we have only had a handful previously. Ready to add to your collection and display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 31"
Blade Style: Single Edge w/ Fuller
Overall length: 36 1/2“
Guard dimensions: 5" width x 4 3/4” length
Scabbard length: 32 1/2”