Luftwaffe Dagger, Model 1937 (aluminum fittings). [Carl Eickhorn]. Stamp – Carl Eickhorn.

Officer’s Dress Dagger Model 1937 was introduced as the new pattern of ceremonial edged weapon for the officer corps of the German Air Force. It replaced the Model 1935 and remained the standard Luftwaffe officer’s dagger until the end of World War II.

The aluminum version represents a distinct variety of edged weapons of the DLV, NSFK, and Luftwaffe organizations, where this lightweight metal was used for manufacturing hilt components, scabbards, or decorative elements. The use of aluminum was dictated by both aesthetic considerations and the conservation of strategic materials under wartime conditions.

The Carl Eickhorn company, whose maker’s mark is present on the example offered here, was founded in Solingen in 1865 and became one of the largest manufacturers of edged weapons in Germany. The trademark featuring a squirrel (Eichhörnchen) served as a guarantee of the highest quality products. During the Third Reich period, the firm produced a wide range of regulation edged weapons: daggers for all branches of the armed forces, SA and SS daggers, NPEA, NSFK, and TeNo daggers, as well as dress daggers, sabers, and swords. Carl Eickhorn products are distinguished by superior steel quality and meticulous finishing, and they are highly valued by collectors today.