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Title Third Reich prison officer's sword
Nationality German
Period c 1936-41
Sold

This is an Eickhorn example (the 1936-41 mark under the ecusson), which has a double-sided eagle and swastika, typical of this unusual hilt. The gilt finish indicates prison officer status as opposed to the silver finish of the justice official's sword, which otherwise had an identical hilt. Of the two, the prison officer's is considerably scarcer.

The hilt has virtually all the original gilding on an aluminium base. There have been copies of this hilt made, but in cast brass. The Eickhorn pieces were always made in aluminium with a gilt or silver finish (see above).

It has all its original aluminium grip wire, virtually all its black enamel scabbard paint and the original leather washer at the base of the blade. There is some minor scarring on the reverse ecusson, where the aluminium shows through (an old test for gold perhaps?). The gilding on the inside of the knuckle bow is bubbling a little with age. The obverse eyebrow of the eagle has worn down to the copper plating, a good sign, as aluminium has to be copper plated before it can receive a decent gold wash. There is about 12 inches' worth of assorted edge nicks down towards the point, where some clown has been fooling around with it.

Overall, the piece is in excellent shape for its age. (The Eickhorn squirrel mark is clearly visible, but it isn't possible to take a photograph of it, because of its position under the ecusson.)

If you want to comment on this item—re quality, age, etc—please email me.


[Edged Weapons : Swords : Third Reich : Other]

testimonials

Many many many thanks about [for] your dagger! Very fine quality! I love it!

A P, Russia, 07.04.2009

Excellent information, Chris, you've been making a big effort! I will spell it out more closely (I'm a historian!) and don't think Bezdek can add much more.

A C, Belgium, 26.06.2005

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