*German, WWII, Kriegsmarine Officer’s Dagger Hangers (M1937 Pattern Dolchgehänge), VGC*
An original Second World War Kriegsmarine officer’s dagger hanger set for the M1937 naval officer’s dress dagger.
The fittings, clips and buckles are aluminium-based with original gilt finish, now showing honest service wear and light patination to the high points. The two central oval buckles each display twin lion-head bosses within a wreath surround, giving four lion masks across the pair. The detailing to the faces and flowing manes remains sharp and well defined. The reverse of the buckles are semi-hollow, consistent with period aluminium construction.
The straps are formed in black ribbed rayon to the obverse, which remains in good condition with only light handling wear. The reverse is finished in black velvet, typical of Kriegsmarine examples, and shows minor compression and light age-related wear but no structural weakness. Stitching throughout remains intact and secure.
All four spring-loaded suspension clips retain good working tension and function correctly. The gilt finish to the clips shows minor edge wear commensurate with age. The short suspension chain and upper support hook are present and correct.
A well-preserved and complete example, displaying attractive period patina and strong detail to the lion-head fittings.
Historical Note:
The M1937 Kriegsmarine officer’s dagger replaced the earlier 1935 pattern and formed part of the formal dress uniform of German naval officers during the Third Reich period. The dagger was suspended from twin hangers attached to the officer’s belt, the lion-head motif reflecting traditional naval heraldic symbolism. Kriegsmarine examples are distinguished from Army and Luftwaffe hangers by their gilt naval fittings and black velvet-backed straps.
*Condition*
Original gilt finish present to all fittings with expected rubbing to raised areas. Lion-head detail remains crisp. Straps retain good colour and integrity with minor wear consistent with age and storage. Velvet reverse shows light compression but no significant loss. All clips and fittings function correctly. No major damage or repairs observed. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMBEOXDOO_5691229951
