Original Item: Only One Available. This is a fine Solingen-Produced totally original WWII German 1st Model Naval Dagger by W.K.C. Waffenfabrik, complete with the rare original plated hammered brass scabbard. This is a very nice gently worn example, with a very nice etched carbon steel blade. Additionally, it also has an original portepee tied in the correct Naval style, which are hard to find, especially properly tied.

This version, officially called the Model 1929, is equipped with a rounded pommel attachment, as used during the German Imperial period. In 1938 the "2nd model" was introduced, with the closed-wing eagle clutching a wreathed Swas. This fine example was almost certainly purchased by a high ranking officer during the pre-war period, probably during the mid 1930s. The crossguard is the standard gilt brass WKC type. The grip is in excellent condition, with a lovely amber color celluloid covering, with just a bit of wear. The twisted brass wire wrapping is in excellent tight condition. There is little wear to the grip overall, so it does not appear to have been worn often. The scabbard locking button is fully functional.

The portepee itself is in good condition, and tied in the proper Kriegsmarine Navy style. It does show light wear and some oxidation, which has given it a lovely golden hue. It definitely has been tied on for some time, as indicated by the oxidation and wear pattern, and is most likely the original purchased with the dagger.

The blade is a very good example, with an excellent fouled anchor etch on both sides of the bright steel blade. The etching on both sides is beautiful, retaining almost all of the frosted backgrounds. There is light overall wear, and some light staining, very common on naval daggers with carbon steel blades. The tip of the blade is straight and unbent, however the original felt blade buffer is missing.

The reverse ricasso is etched with the trademark "Knights-Head" (Ritter-helm) logo of legendary maker Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie of Solingen, over the firms initials of WKC / SOLINGEN. This company is a famous manufacturer of military swords and cutlery in Solingen, Germany - a city famous since the middle ages for its metal-working and craftsmanship in sword making. Per J. Anthony Carter's fine work GERMAN SWORD AND KNIFE MAKERS, the traditional manufacturing of swords at WKC dates back to the year 1774 when the Weyersberg first registered the ''Kings head'' as their trademark. Later in 1883 the company merged with the Kirschbaums and the company Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie was formed, which continued into the Weimar Period. It then rebranded as W.K.C. Waffenfabrik GmbH, and produced many edged weapons during the NSDAP Period. The company is still in operation today.

The hammered-brass scabbard is in very good used condition, with a lovely patina of age. There is a bit of fading to the gold plating, which is the type that evaporates over time, though in the hammer marks it is still fully present. There is also a lot still present on the fittings, a real rarity. The bands feature overlapping oak leaves and acorns, and are quite a bit more ornate than usually seen. The rings are still intact, and in good shape, and retained by decorated loops on the bands. The throat is retained by two dome head screws. The only real issue with the scabbard is some denting on the lower side just below the upper ring mount.

Overall a great early example of a hard to find 1st Model dagger by a famous Solingen maker, complete with a great scabbard and portepee. We have never had one of these before! A worthy addition to any knife collection. Ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 9 3/4"
Overall length: 15 1/8”
Crossguard: 3”
Scabbard Length: 11 1/4”