Original Item: Only One Available. The SS (Schutzstaffel - 'Protection Squadron') was originally formed in 1925, ostensibly to act as a small, loyal bodyguard unit to protect the Führer, Adolf H. Under the direction of the Reichsführer-SS Heinrich Himmler, the SS grew to be the most ruthless and feared organization of the 20th century. They were the vanguard of NSDAP and eventually controlled nearly every function of German life and much of Occupied Europe.

This is a very nice service worn German WWII SS Degen (Épée) Sword, complete with the original steel scabbard. Both are in solid condition throughout, but do show signs of significant use during service. Aside from the typical wear from oxidation and age, the black enamel paint is almost completely worn away from the wood, and the blade itself has been sharpened, with signs of use. Degen swords are usually intended for dress use, but this example definitely looks to have seen real use.

The hilt mounts are all in good condition with their nickel-plated surfaces shows spots of wear and oxidation where the plating is missing. The pommel cap is the NCO variety, having a flat top with rounded edges. In the center is the ᛋᛋ doppelte Siegrune (Double Sig/Victory Rune) symbol in relief. The symbol is in good condition, however the plating and background darkening are worn away, replaced with an oxidized patina.. The "D" guard flows downward through the crossguard area and ends in a tear drop.

The grip is totally correct, being one of the types that was lacquered. We see this type of grip on early, unmarked SS Non-Commissioned Officer Degens. Like most, much of the lacquer has worn off from hand wear in center of the grip. A very small portion of the grip near the ferrule still has the original luster. Overall it is in really nice shape, being totally chip-free with no splits of any flaws.

The upper grip ferrule is a simple ring, now somewhat loose, and the lower ferrule features the six standing oak leaves. The oak leaves have hand enhancement to the veins as well as the acorn caps. The casting seams are quite interesting as they have had a pebbled surface applied as well as a hand engraved acorn. There is definitely a bit of wobble in the grip fittings.

The blade is a nice 33 inch length, with a lovely shape. It is now stained and oxidized from service, and it looks to have been sharpened several times. We have no way of knowing whether this is from wartime service, or use post war, but it looks to be non-arsenal level. It may have been pressed into service during the later years of the war.

The scabbard is nice and straight with some dents and loss of paint. It shows usage and the most modest of age, and is 60% intact, with a lot of crazing and checking due to age. The upper scabbard mount is a beauty featuring the Wotan's Knot. The areas between the loops still have some of the original blackening. This mount is retained by two dome head screws, one on each of the lower loops of the fitting. The throat is stamped with the SS-Kulturzeichen inspection mark, which is two overlapping ᛋ Siegrune (Sig/Victory Rune) markings inside an octagon. It still has the hanger ring, though the belt hook loop has broken off of the bolster.

If you are looking for a very nice SS NCO'S Degen with lots of patina, this example will go nicely in any collection.

Specifications:

Blade Length: 33"
Blade Style: Single Edge w/ Fuller
Overall length: 38 1/4“
Guard dimensions: 5 " width x 5” length
Scabbard length: 34”