~ WW2 Era Nazi Germany Luftwaffe Dagger and Silver Tassel ~
The blade is stamped with the manufacturer's mark, as seen in the pictures.
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
Description:
Blade:
The Luftwaffe dagger typically features a straight, double-edged blade.
The blade is often made of nickel-plated steel and sometimes etched with decorative patterns or Luftwaffe motifs, including the Luftwaffe eagle and swastika.
Handle:
The handle (grip) is usually made of ivory-colored celluloid, though some examples feature wood or plastic.
It is wrapped with a series of grooves for a secure grip.
A metal pommel cap often adorns the top, usually featuring an eagle clutching a swastika in its talons.
Crossguard:
The crossguard is made of aluminum or nickel silver and shaped like a horizontal bar.
It frequently features the Luftwaffe eagle emblem with outstretched wings and a swastika.
Scabbard:
The scabbard is made of metal, often steel or aluminum, and is covered with a textured finish.
It includes two suspension rings for attaching the dagger to a uniform belt.
Tassel (Portepee):
A silver tassel (portepee) is often tied to the handle, symbolizing rank or ceremonial use.
The tassel consists of a braided cord and a small, ornamental knot at the end, usually made of silver or aluminum threads.
History:
Introduction:
The Luftwaffe dagger was introduced in 1934 as part of the uniform for officers and senior non-commissioned officers (NCOs) of the Luftwaffe, Germany's air force.
It was modeled after earlier German daggers but adapted to fit the Luftwaffe's aesthetic and traditions.
Types:
There are two primary types of Luftwaffe daggers:
First Model (1934–1937): Features a larger, more ornate design with a chain hanger attached to the scabbard.
Second Model (1937–1945): A more streamlined and practical design with simpler suspension rings.
Symbolism:
The Luftwaffe dagger was both a functional sidearm and a symbol of rank and status.
It was worn during formal occasions, parades, and ceremonies, reflecting the wearer’s affiliation with the Luftwaffe.
Manufacturers:
Prominent manufacturers of Luftwaffe daggers included Eickhorn, Alcoso, WKC, and Puma.
Many daggers bear the maker’s mark on the blade, which helps in identifying the manufacturer and verifying authenticity.
Use During WWII:
While primarily ceremonial, Luftwaffe daggers were also carried in combat zones as a sidearm.
They became a symbol of pride for Luftwaffe officers and were often personalized with inscriptions or decorations.
