German, WW2, Kriegsmarine Officer’s 2nd Model Dagger by Eickhorn, Solingen, with Lightning Bolt Scabbard and Portepee

*German, WW2, Kriegsmarine Officer’s 2nd Model Dagger by Eickhorn, Solingen, with Lightning Bolt Scabbard and Portepee*

A fine example of the Kriegsmarine Officer’s dagger, 2nd Model, manufactured by Carl Eickhorn, Solingen. The dagger measures approximately 38.5 cm overall, with a 24.7 cm etched blade featuring naval motifs including anchors, dolphins, oak leaves, and foliage. The ricasso bears the Eickhorn squirrel trademark with “Original Eickhorn Solingen” legend, a correct wartime marking.

The white celluloid grip remains intact with its twisted brass wire binding. The gilt brass crossguard bears the fouled anchor motif with oakleaf terminals, and the pommel features the 1938 pattern eagle clutching a swastika within a wreath. Retains the original silver bullion officer’s portepee.

Complete with its correct brass lightning bolt scabbard, decorated with oakleaf suspension bands, lightning flashes and feathered panels. Both suspension rings present.

Historical Note:
The 2nd Model Kriegsmarine dagger was introduced in 1938, replacing the earlier hammered scabbard version. Issued to officers of the German Navy, the dagger was a symbol of rank and authority rather than a combat weapon, worn both on duty and with parade dress.

Carl Eickhorn of Solingen was the most prestigious edged weapon manufacturer in Germany during the Third Reich. From 1935, Eickhorn standardised its international branding, using “Original Eickhorn Solingen” in English to reinforce authenticity and protect its mark abroad. This explains the English wording on a German service dagger and is entirely correct for the period.

The lightning bolt scabbard became synonymous with Kriegsmarine officer’s dress daggers of the war years, with gilt brass construction and finely detailed decorative panels. Surviving examples with both blade etching and portepee intact remain highly sought after by collectors.

*Condition*
The dagger is in very good original condition. The blade retains a bright finish with clear etching throughout, showing only minor grey toning and surface marks from service wear. The grip remains intact with no cracks or repairs, retaining its original brass wire binding. Crossguard and pommel show honest wear with loss to the gilt finish, but retain good definition, particularly to the eagle and swastika motif. The bullion portepee is complete and tightly bound, showing light fraying commensurate with age.

The scabbard is structurally sound with no dents, decorated panels remain clear, and suspension rings are intact. The gilt finish has thinned and darkened through age and handling, giving an even patina. The throat shows no signs of refitting, confirming originality.

Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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