{"product_id":"original-wwii-german-2nd-model-kriegsmarine-naval-dagger-by-wkc-waffenfabrik-with-steel-lightning-bolt-scabbard-and-portepee-replaced-period-parts","title":"Original WWII German 2nd Model Kriegsmarine Naval Dagger by WKC Waffenfabrik with Steel Lightning Bolt Scabbard and Portepee - Replaced Period Parts","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal Item: Only One Available. Recently acquired at a military auction and fresh to the market, this German WWII Kriegsmarine 2nd Model Naval Dagger incorporates an original etched blade by the renowned Solingen maker \u003cstrong\u003eW.K.C. Waffenfabrik\u003c\/strong\u003e. The dagger remains an attractive and substantially complete display example with its celluloid covered grip, crossguard, portepee, and steel scabbard. However, close examination indicates that several major components were replaced, most likely during the postwar period. Most notably, the brass 1938 pattern pommel does not appear to be original to the dagger, and the plated steel scabbard is a generic replacement rather than a W.K.C. produced example.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe brass pommel is the 1938 pattern and displays well defined eagle and wreath detail. Based on its pattern and its relationship to the other components, we believe it was added to the dagger after the war. It should not be considered an original factory fitted W.K.C. pommel. The crossguard appears to be the standard W.K.C. type and retains crisp detail. The scabbard locking button remains functional, although it shows wear and patination and requires a firm push to release. The original red felt blade buffer is still present at the base of the blade, however it is discolored due to age and exposure to the scabbard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe grip is covered in ivory colored celluloid that has aged to an attractive light amber tone. It shows some staining but no visible cracking. The twisted brass wire wrap remains complete, with no missing sections, and has developed a pleasing oxidized patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA portepee is tied around the crossguard in the Kriegsmarine style. It is in very good condition overall, showing light wear and areas of fraying, particularly near the pommel. Most of the bullion remains intact and has matured to a warm gold color through oxidation and age. Protected portions against the grip and fittings retain more of the original color. The oxidation and wear patterns indicate that the portepee has been tied to the dagger for an extended period, although we cannot confirm that it was originally purchased with this dagger.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bright carbon steel blade is the strongest feature of the dagger, retaining an attractive fouled anchor etch on both sides. It has the characteristic double fuller and remains unsharpened. A small dent is present at the tip, along with light scattered oxidation, but there are no signs of major damage or excessive past cleaning. The etched decoration remains clearly visible and gives the dagger considerable display appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse ricasso is stamped with the trademark \u003cstrong\u003e\"Knights-Head\"\u003c\/strong\u003e (Ritter-helm) logo of legendary maker \u003cem\u003eWeyersberg Kirschbaum \u0026amp; Cie of Solingen\u003c\/em\u003e, over the firms initials of \u003cstrong\u003eW K C\u003c\/strong\u003e. This company is a famous manufacturer of military swords and cutlery in Solingen, Germany - a city famous since the middle ages for its metal-working and craftsmanship in sword making. Per J. Anthony Carter's definitive work GERMAN SWORD AND KNIFE MAKERS, the traditional manufacturing of swords at WKC dates back to the year 1774 when the Weyersberg first registered the ''Kings head'' as their trademark. Later in 1883 the company merged with the Kirschbaums and the company Weyersberg Kirschbaum \u0026amp; Cie was formed, which continued into the Weimar Period. It then rebranded as \u003cem\u003eW.K.C. Waffenfabrik GmbH,\u003c\/em\u003e and produced many edged weapons during the NSDAP Period. The company is still in operation today. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe accompanying scabbard is a plated steel example with a lightning bolt style decorative pattern. It remains straight, without visible dents or bends, and retains areas of its gold or brass colored wash over the steel body. Wear to the finish exposes the underlying steel in places. The scabbard is fitted with generic carrying bands rather than the correct W.K.C. pattern bands and should not be considered original to the dagger. The bands display overlapping oak leaves and acorns, and both suspension rings remain present. The brass throat is secured by two dome headed screws on the narrow sides. The scabbard has developed an attractive aged patina and complements the dagger well for display, despite being a later replacement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an appealing representative Kriegsmarine naval dagger centered around a desirable W.K.C. etched blade, with a well preserved amber toned grip, complete wire wrap, and an aged portepee that has clearly remained in place for many years. The replaced 1938 pattern pommel and generic steel scabbard prevent it from being considered an untouched or factory complete W.K.C. example, but the assembled dagger still has strong visual presence and offers an accessible example for a German WWII edged weapons, Kriegsmarine, or Solingen maker collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecifications:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBlade Length: 9 3\/4\"\u003cbr\u003eOverall length: 15 1\/8”\u003cbr\u003eCrossguard: 3”\u003cbr\u003eScabbard Length: 11 3\/8”\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Original Items","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45416293302341,"sku":"ONAC25SD0187","price":695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1524\/1342\/files\/DB3AD5C4-2DB8-4A05-953C-474C760FF156.jpg?v=1785359443","url":"https:\/\/www.ima-usa.com\/products\/original-wwii-german-2nd-model-kriegsmarine-naval-dagger-by-wkc-waffenfabrik-with-steel-lightning-bolt-scabbard-and-portepee-replaced-period-parts","provider":"International Military Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}