WW2 German Third Reich Army Heer Dagger by E. & F. Horster (Original) 

SKU: GERMAN ARMY HEER DRESS DAGGER

Original/Reproduction: Original

Availability: In-stock

Manufacturer: by E. & F. Horster

Size / Dimensions: Blade Length 26 cm

Materials / Construction: high-quality nickel-plated, double-edged steel

Condition: Mint

PRICE: $1200.00

Seller Type: WW2C

Seller ID: JMW

Seller Code: 700

Return Policy: 3-day inspection and return policy on used guns and accessories.

Description

This is an Original WW2 German Third Reich Army Heer Dagger by E. & F. Horster. The condition is near mint.

History

During World War II, the German Heer (Army) issued a distinctive dress dagger to officers as a symbol of status and prestige. One of the most recognized and sought-after variations is the Heer dagger produced by Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Co. (WKC), a well-known Solingen-based blade manufacturer.

The Heer dagger was introduced in 1935 as a replacement for the traditional Weimar-era army swords. It was designed as a decorative piece rather than a combat weapon, intended to be worn during ceremonies and formal occasions. The dagger’s aesthetic and craftsmanship reflected the prestige of the officer class within the Wehrmacht.

Design & Features

The WKC Heer dagger stands out due to its exceptional craftsmanship and characteristic design. It typically features:

• Blade: A high-quality nickel-plated, double-edged steel blade, often etched with the manufacturer’s mark:
  • The WKC Solingen logo, which includes a helmeted knight’s head.
• Hilt: Made from solid cast aluminum or zinc alloy, often finished with silver plating.
• Grip: Constructed from celluloid-covered wood, commonly seen in ivory, yellow, or orange tones. It was wrapped in a decorative twisted silver wire.
• Crossguard: Features an intricately cast spread-winged eagle clutching a swastika, a defining feature of German military daggers of the period.
• Pommel: Circular, with a raised oak leaf motif surrounding its circumference.
• Scabbard: The dagger was accompanied by a silver-finished scabbard made from aluminum or steel, featuring a pebbled texture and two carrying rings for suspension from a uniform belt.

Variants & Markings

• WKC produced several variations of Heer daggers, some featuring etched or personalized inscriptions.
• Some blades were marked with presentation dedications or unit insignia, increasing their collector value.
• The early production models were often of superior craftsmanship, with higher-quality nickel fittings compared to the later wartime models, which sometimes used lower-grade materials due to resource shortages.