Description
Product Description: This very early Heer Dagger is a choice example of a relatively scarce dagger type. These early production pieces are very desirable. This one has a very nice bright nickel plated steel blade that shows great original shine. The ricasso is stamped with the small “kissing cranes” logo of Robert Klaas. The handle of this appealing dagger features a beautiful early first pattern guard and pommel. These handle fittings are nicely matching and are beautifully hand enhanced, with wonderful detail. The Trylon grip is an eye-catching deep orange color, and is free of cracks, chips, or other damage. This fine early Heer dagger is complete with its original scabbard. The scabbard shows only minimal age, and matches the dagger fittings perfectly. The side throat screws are present and there are no dents. Overall, this is a beautiful dagger, that could be a part of a discriminating and advanced collection. The condition rates as excellent plus plus.
Historical Description: After WWI, the German military, known as the Reichswehr, was restricted to a relatively small force. Hitler changed this in 1935, reintroducing universal military conscription, and creating a new German Armed Forces- the Wehrmacht. Within the Wehrmacht, the German Army was known as the Heer, and a new dagger was designed and introduced for the officers of this new German Army in May 1935. As with all German Army officer uniforms and accoutrements, they were not issued; rather, the officer had to purchase them. These were ceremonial and decorative pieces of regalia, that were worn on occasions that did not call for carrying a sword. The overall pattern and design of the dagger remained consistent throughout the production run, but the large number of individual manufacturers created a wide variety in detail, especially regarding the handle fittings. There were approximately 42 different manufacturers of the blades. There were construction changes over time as well. Early German Army daggers generally featured plated brass alloy handle fittings. Later, zinc was used. Wartime type scabbards were generally unplated, with a gray finish. Production of German Army daggers ceased around 1943. The German Army was a huge organization, and large numbers of these daggers were produced. But there were many specific variants that were produced in low numbers, especially the highest quality, luxury type pieces for well-heeled officers. Some daggers were personalized, and customized, and are unique. The striking and attractive design of the German Army dagger was well-received by officers at the time, and these are very sought-after by collectors today.
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