Original Item: Only One Available. Here we have a great example of one of the most rare and sought after of all German WWII swords: the Prison / Justice Official's Sword. This is the first example that we have had the pleasure of offering, and they are so seldom seen that many are not even aware that they exist. It's hard to imagine just how much fear this sword could inspire, as during NSDAP rule these officials literally had the power of life and death over the prisoners. For more information on these swords, please see SWORDS OF GERMANY 1940/1945 by John R. Angolia, page 264.

The design of these swords is somewhat reminiscent of the Army officer sword pattern, and most likely the blades are identical to those. However the shape and design of the hilt is definitely quite a bit different. The later pattern gilt aluminum hilt features a finely detailed eagle head pommel with a feathered back strap, and irregularly shaped guard. There is nice detail throughout the design, and the handwork is beautifully rendered throughout the hilt. The guard and ferrule feature the same feathered design, and the grip side tabs show some nice scroll designs.

The cross guard on both sides displays an NSDAP Reichsadler Eagle, which faces to the left on one side, and to the right on the other, so that they match the direction of the pommel. They definitely look to have seen some hand enhancing, and the pebbled background is lovely. The guard itself surrounds the ricasso of the blade, and the scabbard throat when it is installed. Under the curled end of the guard is the stamped marking GES. GESCH., the abbreviation for Gesetzlich Geschützt (Protected By Law), indicating that the hewer is a trademarked design. The crossguard is a bit loose, as the original leather blade buffer is missing.

The grip is an outstanding black celluloid-over-wood base. It is wrapped with 4 aluminum wires, with the center pair twisted. The celluloid is still tight to the wood, and does not have any movement on the tang like the guard does. Overall the hilt is in great shape, still retaining most of the gilt finish, with the majority of the wear on the head of the eagle.

There is no maker marking anywhere on the sword, however these rare swords look to have had considerable variations in style based on the maker. The shape of the feathers was different, and some would use the "Oak-leaves and acorns" motif seen throughout German officer swords. Some also would only have the Eagle on one side of the guard, with the usual "shield" on the opposite side, and a regular "P" shaped guard. The style of feathers and the guard on this example exactly matches two known examples we have seen made by the Legendary Solingen-based firm of Carl Eickhorn, so we believe that this is an unmarked example made by that company. It may also be possible that Eickhorn sold components such as the hilt fittings, which were then assembled using blades from another company. The design is quite different from WKC examples, and the feather shape is totally different from Clemen & Jung as well.

The 32” blade of this example is in excellent condition, with no chips or dents on the edge. The nickel-plating is just shy of complete, with only a tiny spot of oxidation. There is very little scuffing or scratching, making it really a fantastic example. There is no maker marking, but it is undoubtedly high quality German WWII manufacture.

The scabbard of this example is in very good condition, with no major dents, and is still straight with no bends. The black enamel finish is well retained, probably at about 90%, with areas of chipping and scratching. There is crazing and and checking in the finish due to age, and we see no signs that it was ever repainted.

Overall a great example of a very rare German WWII sword, most likely made by a famous Solingen maker. These are among the most attractive and sought after of all German WWII swords. Ready to display!

Specifications:
Overall length: 37 1/2”
Blade length: 32”
Blade Style: Single Edged with Fuller
Guard dimensions: 5" width x 4 1/2” length
Scabbard Length: 33 1/2"