Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a "Miniature" Heer Army Officer dagger, which have been observed from several different makers. This example is not marked on the blade, as with others we have seen before, and the blade is also nickel-plated, which would help keep it looking shiny after it was handled by prospective customers. Often referred to as "salesman samples", there is definitely debate over the purpose of these miniature daggers, which are quite useful as letter openers as well. They are constructed much as the full size daggers, with all parts scaled down accordingly. We assume they may have been distributed to potential customers as a form of "advertisement" for the firm. We have uploaded a photo of this item next to a full size dagger (not included).

The plastic grip of this miniature dagger is still the correct white color, but does not look to be made from celluloid, which may explain why it has not faded at all. It has the same spiral texture as seen on the full size examples. It is in very good condition, though there is a repair near the grip ferrule. The guards look to be zinc alloy, which were possibly plated at one point, but now show a dull zinc patina. The crossguard has the standard "Spread Wing" Heer Eagle over a wreathed mobile swas (hook cross), with the bird looking to the left, with the rear side smooth. Both ends of the crossguard terminate in scroll finials. The pommel fitting is still attached to the tang tightly, and shows the iconic "oak leaf and acorns" motif going around the entire circumference. The grip ferrule looks to be plated brass.

The blade is in very good condition, still retaining almost all of the nickel plating, showing just a bit of wear through on the tip and edges. The dagger is mostly solid, with just a bit of wobble in the grip.

The included scabbard is plated non-magnetic alloy, which is now tarnished except where protected by the cross guard. It is in really great shape, with lovely pebbling on both sides, and the correct oak leaves on the hanger ring bands.

A very interesting miniature Army Heer Officer dagger with scabbard, ready to add to your collection!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 5"
Overall length: 7 3/8”
Crossguard: 1 3/8”
Scabbard: 5 3/8"

The German Army (Heer) first carried a dagger beginning in 1935. The weapon was worn in lieu of occasions not demanding the wearing of a more formal sword. The dagger design was quite attractive featuring silvered heavy fittings with white or colored grip. The crossguard depicted a Wehrmacht open-winged eagle clutching a wreathed swas.

The pommel depicted oak leafing around the outer circumference. The scabbard had panels of pebble designs. Later produced examples were plated with nickel, and late war-made pieces were unplated, finished in a gray color metal. These daggers are often encountered with an aluminum portepee.