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The Luftwaffe instituted the use of a dagger in 1934. The dagger was designed based on an earlier piece used by the DLV.

There are two main types of Luftwaffe 1st model daggers produced; the first type had nickel fittings and was the earlier type. The second type had aluminum fittings and was introduced in late 1935. One reason for the change was to achieve a more modern look. In addition, the same type of material wa employed in the manufacture of some airplanes. Both models are illustrated on this page. The nickel type is first, followed by the aluminum fittings dagger.



The pictures below provide a closer look at the scabbard and the hanger. Notice the brand of the maker on the clip of the hanger. The clip was used to attach the dagger to a loop in the belt of the dress uniform.



This page is a recognition and identification guide for German bayonets. Multiple detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point out specific points that should be noted.

One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my German bayonet worth?". A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the Nazi bayonets is reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth of the police sword in the collector's market is illustrated.

This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of MilitaryItems.com, a company dedicated to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military antiques and collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.

WANT TO LEARN MORE?
  1. FAQ's
  2. Dagger and sword anatomy
  3. Edge weapon RZM numbers
  4. German Dagger hangers
  5. Edge weapon maker markings
  6. Hilt markings
  7. German edge weapon materials
  8. Perspective view
  9. Purchasing a German bayonet





The tip of the scabbard is metal with a blunt end. The fittings are attached to the scabbard via four screws. One on each side of the attachement. Notice that the screw head pictured below contains a buildup of material. This may be caused due to excess cleaning solutions gathered over time. The handle of the dagger is blue and is wrapped by a coiled wire.


The pommel of the dagger consists of a round circle with a modified gold swastika in the middle. This is one of the distinguishing features of the first model style. The same design is also found near the handguard.


The blade has two markings on it. The largest is the brand of the manufacturer. The smaller one is located on above the first marking and it consists of the Waffen eagle with the number five. However, there was no official Luftwaffe markings stamped in any blade and the RZM number was never applied to an official dagger.

There were several makers producing this item. Among the most common are found:

  • Carl Eickhorn
  • F W Holler
  • E F Horster
  • E P & S
  • J A Henckels
  • W K C
  • Paul Weyersberg
  • S M F
  • Carl Julius Krebs
  • Gbr Heller

    It is possible to have other manufacturer's who do not appear on this list.



    ALUMINUM vs NICKEL

    A comparison between the construction of the aluminum dagger and the nickel dagger follows. The daggers made from aluminum tend to be in better condition because the material does not deteriorate as rapidly. Notice the difference between the main bodies and the pommel.

    In another sharp contrast both scabbard tips are shown together here. Aluminum is brighter and remains cleaner than nickel.



    Many German edge weapons are currently reproduced. It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of this item. Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of the collectible.



    If you have an interest is seeing other edge weapons of the Third Reich, you can do so by going to our WWII German daggers and Swords identification guide, Where we cover blades from the Heer (Army), Navy (Kriegsmarine), Air Force (Luftwaffe) and other organizations.





  • PRICING GUIDE INFORMATION

    The value for WWII German daggers and other military antiques and collectibles is provided as a means to educate the collector community and individuals who have a general interest on the field. The following is an estimated value. Prices may vary in every state and every country. This service is provided courtesy of MilitaryItems.com . The source for military antiques and collectibles in the web.

    Year 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017
    Value $500.00 $550.00 $600.00 $675.00 $725.00 $800.00 $900.00 $1,000.00 $1,000.00 $950.00 $900.00 $900.00
    Availability Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common Common
    Invest Grade A A A A A A A A B B B B


    While the item featured here is not for sale, similar items like it are available for purchase in our website MilitaryItems.com


      MARKET ANALYSIS
    Jan 3rd, 2017
    The First model Luftwaffe dagger featured here shows normal wear. Patina is typical of this type of construction (Nickel Silver). The overall value of daggers is going through a market adjustment.


     
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