Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of a "Miniature" 2nd Model Luftwaffe dagger, which have been observed from several different makers. It is a fine Solingen-Produced example made by the well-known Solingen-based firm of Solinger Metalwaren-Fabrik Stöcker & Co.. 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, but the idea of a miniature dagger to be used as a sample by sales staff seems somewhat suspect, as the real thing isn't excessively large.

The celluloid grip of this miniature dagger has faded to a lovely light amber color, very close to the original ivory color, and remains in good condition throughout, with the original wire wrapping still present. There is very little in the way of staining, and no cracking we can see. The hilt mountings look to be of all aluminum construction, very common for use on 2nd model Luftwaffe daggers. Aluminum was an "Air Age" material, which was used to make most airplanes. It was considered fitting and desirable for the eagle-shaped guard to be made of this material. The crossguard has the iconic Luftwaffe eagle perched on a swas (hook cross), with the bird looking to the left, with the rear side pebbled. The cross guard is definitely loose, probably due to the grip shrinking over the years.

This example was produced by Solinger Metalwaren-Fabrik Stöcker & Co. GmbH, also known as SMF, who were one of the major producers of this knife during WWII. Their "Seated King" over SMF / SOLINGEN trademark is seen on the reverse base of the blade. They were one of the major suppliers of edged weapons to the Luftwaffe during WWII. As the name implies, they were located in Solingen, the legendary "City of Blades" in Western Germany. For more information, please see J. Anthony Carter's fine work GERMAN SWORD AND KNIFE MAKERS. Below to logo is D.R.G.M., indicating that the miniature dagger is a protected / patented design.

The blade itself is nickel plated, and still in very good condition, with some scratching and scuffing to the finish. There may be some plating loss due to running wear, but there is no oxidation we can see. The blade has a lovely attribution marked on the blade:

SCHOELLER-BLECKMANN-PHOENIX-EDELSTAHL

As best we can tell, this company still exists today, and was known for making steel, particularly steel pipes. We can see how this company probably was able to supply a large amount of material to the Luftwaffe, as steel pipes were used in gliders and other equipment. Definitely some nice research potential here!

The scabbard for this miniature dagger looks to be made from cast iron or steel, which were then plated. It looks to originally have been zinc plated, which has now oxidized to a gray patina. It fits the blade on the miniature dagger well.

A very interesting miniature 2nd Model Luftwaffe dagger, made by a well-known Solingen maker. Ready to add to your collection!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 5 1/2"
Overall length: 8 3/4”
Crossguard: 2 1/16”
Scabbard Length: 6 1/2”