*German, WW2, 1935-1936, Third Reich 1st Pattern Luftwaffe Dagger, by SMF Solingen*
Approximate Measurements: 30.6cm blade, 45cm overall
This example has a blue leather grip, silvered mounts with brass swastika to centre of pommel and down swept cross guard on both sides. Double edged polished blade bearing SMF seated king logo.
Background:
The Luftwaffe dagger holds a unique historical significance. After World War I, Germany was prohibited from having an Air Force. However, in 1933, the Nazis established the Deutscher Luftsport-Verband (DLV), a paramilitary aviation organization. DLV officers were distinguished by wearing a long dagger. In 1935, Adolf Hitler violated the Treaty of Versailles by creating the new German armed forces known as the Wehrmacht, which included the Luftwaffe as one of its branches. During this time, Luftwaffe officers began wearing the first model Luftwaffe dagger, which was a shortened version of the earlier DLV dagger.
The first model Luftwaffe dagger had a scabbard covered in blue leather and a blue grip wrapped with wire. The cross guard featured a round swastika known as the “sunwheel,” flanked by stylized “wings.” The pommel took the form of a vertical disc, featuring another larger swastika. In 1937, the Luftwaffe introduced a new dagger design, known as the second pattern. This second model resembled the daggers worn by officers in the German Army.
SMF:
The SMF – Solinger Metallwaren-Fabrik (Stöcker & Co.) company was founded in 1871. It registered in Solingen on July 19, 1905. This metalsmith made fine steel and nickel-silver products, as well as: metal ware, razors and razor blades (under the “Somefa Klingen” brand). SMF was located on Burgstraße 101 in 1932. SMF was a large producer of edged weapons during the Third Reich era. The company specialized in air force (and associated) products including: 1st and 2nd Model Luftwaffe daggers, NSFK/DLV and gravity knives. They also produced Wehrmacht and NSDAP edged weapons of all sorts. Their trademark consists of a seated king above “SMF” and an arched “Solingen.” In 1935, SMF received its RZM license M7/9. Tableware, knives and manicure articles were made from the end of WWII until the business closed in September 1974.
*Condition*
This rare knife is in good condition with service wear and minor age pitting to the blade. The grip is missing the wire binding. The Luftwaffe inspection mark is not visible. There is no scabbard. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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