Main Types of German Wehrmacht Daggers

Wehrmacht officer daggers were ceremonial dress weapons used by officers and certain NCOs in the German armed forces before and during World War II. They were never intended for battle — instead, they symbolized rank, pride, and affiliation.

Each service branch had its own distinct dagger design, materials, and insignia. For collectors, these differences make Wehrmacht daggers an endlessly fascinating and detailed area of militaria.

Heer (Army) Officer Dagger

The most recognized pattern. Heer officer’s daggers feature a slim blade, silver-plated fittings, and ribbed grips — usually ivory, orange, or white.

Introduced: 1935

Carried by: German Army officers and senior NCOs

Design:

  • Bright nickel or silver fittings

  • Distinctive “eagle with swastika” crossguard (historical symbol)

  • Ribbed grip — most often ivory, orange, or white celluloid over wood

  • Straight, polished blade with plain or etched finish

  • Metal scabbard with two suspension rings for hanging on the uniform

Variants:

  • Early production used high-quality nickel silver; later examples used plated alloys.

  • Grip colors varied by batch and manufacturer — orange grips, often aged to amber, are especially collectible.

Heer daggers are among the most common and affordable entry points for collectors. Pay attention to crossguard shape and grip color — small differences reveal specific manufacturers or time periods.

Luftwaffe (Air Force) Officer Dagger

Easily identified by the Luftwaffe eagle crossguard. Early models had blue leather scabbards, while later versions used metal. Many blades were etched with decorative motifs, and their variation makes them a fun collecting niche.

The Luftwaffe (Air Force) produced two major dagger patterns, both highly sought after for their distinctive design and variety.

1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger (1934–1937)

Features:

  • Large, ornate crossguard shaped like stylized wings

  • Blue or grey leather-covered scabbard

  • Wire-wrapped blue leather grip

  • Heavy brass or nickel fittings

Early 1st Model daggers are rare and command higher prices, especially in complete sets with hangers and portepee (dagger knot).

2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger (1937–1945)

 

Features:

  • Slimmer, more practical design

  • Aluminum or plated steel fittings

  • Ivory or yellow celluloid grip

  • Metal scabbard with fine pebbling

The 2nd Model became the standard Luftwaffe officer’s dagger during the war. Variations in finish, grip tone, and maker marks make for an exciting collecting field.

Kriegsmarine (Navy) Dagger

Naval daggers are among the most ornate, featuring anchor pommels and gilded brass fittings. Many have etched blades with naval scenes or motifs. Authenticity and condition strongly affect value — be wary of reproduction gilding.

Introduced: even though, navy officers carried daggers for centuries, the standard German Kriegsmarine dagger was introduced in 1938

Design:

  • Gilded brass fittings with naval themes — anchor pommel, fouled anchor crossguard

  • White grip (celluloid or ivory-toned)

  • Blade often etched with naval scenes (ships, waves, eagles, etc.)

  • Brass scabbard with lightning-bolt or pebble pattern

Variants:

  • Presentation daggers often had detailed personalized etchings.

  • Late-war examples show simpler finishes due to material shortages.

Kriegsmarine daggers are admired for their ornate detail and blade etchings. Intact gilding and sharp etch work significantly increase value.

 

Other: SS, SA Daggers

German paramilitary organizations had their own designed edge weapons carried by the organization members.

Highly distinctive and widely reproduced. SS daggers bear the motto “Meine Ehre heißt Treue”; SA daggers display “Alles für Deutschland.” Genuine examples have precise craftsmanship and natural aging — verify authenticity carefully and collect responsibly.

Smaller organisations such as the NSKK and NSFK had their own dagger patterns. These are scarcer and attract experienced collectors seeking unusual pieces.

Identifying Authentic Wehrmacht Daggers

  • Maker Marks: Look for authentic manufacturing firms like Eickhorn, WKC, or Robert Klaas etc on the backside of the blade (maker marks are usually located on the blade under the crossguard). 

  • Fit & Finish: Originals have tight construction and high-quality materials.

  • Aging & Patina: Real examples show natural oxidation, not artificial distressing.

  • Provenance: Any period documentation or veteran provenance adds significant credibility and value.

Care, Storage & Display

  • Handle with clean hands or gloves.

  • Avoid polishing — patina adds authenticity and value.

  • Store in a dry, stable environment.

  • Display away from direct sunlight and humidity.

Proper care preserves both beauty and market value over time.

Conclusion

German Wehrmacht daggers represent a fascinating blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and history. Whether you’re a new enthusiast or seasoned collector, focus on authenticity, condition, and context. Every dagger tells a story — preserving that story is the true heart of collecting.