Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great example of the rare German Pre-WWII "Armistice" Lion's head sword for officers, made by the well-known firm of Paul Weyersberg in Solingen, Germany, complete with its original scabbard. The "Lion's Head" design is a classic German design, and this is a more upmarket version made in the early Third Reich era, with an excellent triple-etched nickel plated blade.

The all brass hilt consists of a finely detailed lion head cat with foliate backstrap and "P" guard. The Lion is fitted with blood red faceted "jewel" eyes. Nice detail throughout his whiskers, chin, and muzzle. The handwork is beautifully rendered throughout this brass. The backstrap consists of lovely foliate designs, with flowers on the side tabs. The "P" guard has raised laurel leaves and berries, which matches the design on the grip ferrule.

The crossguard has an Eagle perched on laurel leaves, with outspread wings above, a design only seen on these "Armistice" swords. The hilt also features some of the original gilded finish, making it very attractive.

The scabbard of this example still has good original factory black enamel, which is retained at 75% with a few small dents. The lacquer does have some flaking and oxidation in places, with the some bubbling under the enamel. There is also the usual crazing and checking seen on scabbards of this age.

The grip is an outstanding black celluloid-over-wood base. It is wrapped with triple  wire, with the central pair being larger. The celluloid is still tight to the wood, and does not have any movement on the tang.

The 30 3/4 inch blade of this example is in very good condition, with some light denting and wear to the blunt edge in places. The nickel-plating is over 95% complete, with some light scuffing in areas, particularly near the edge. There is very little oxidation of any kind. The blade is also "triple-etched", meaning it has etching on both sides AND on the spine. Both sides of the blade feature beautiful floral motifs and “spoils of war” design with helmets, swords and cannon. The spine has a lovely repeating floral pattern.

This great example was made by Paul Weyersberg of Solingen, the legendary "City of Blades" in western Germany. The reverse ricasso is etched with PAUL WEYERSBERG & Co. / SOLINGEN in double ovals around the firms trademark "Sword-and-Wreath" logo, which was the only marking they used during the Third Reich era. This company was one of many in Solingen owned by members of the Weyersberg family. The company survived the war, but ceased production in 1955. For more information please see GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS by J. Anthony Carter.

Unfortunately the chappe/rainguard mostly covers this area, so photographing the complete logo is impossible. The original leather blade buffer is still present in the cross guard.

Overall an very good condition and rare high quality Lion's Head sword, from a well known German sword maker, based in Solingen, the "City of Blades" in Western Germany. Ready to display!