Description
Zeitner, Wien VIII TM. An example of this rare dagger is shown on pages 17 & 18 of World of Dress Daggers 1900-1945 by Robert J. Berger. Chrome-plated hilt fittings show light surface wear/age to the pommel in the form of a stylized crown of Rudolf II, and a crossguard of stylized wings with a central undamaged enamel white triangle on red background insignia of the Austrian Air Force. Underside of the right quillon is equipped with a small hook to hold the portepee in place. White enamel over wood grip shows light surface wear/minor scratches and one hairline crack along with a piece of the upper part of grip broken away from grip. Plated cross diamond-section blade grades EX/EX+ showing light surface wear with uniform gray speckling to flats of blade, but no nicks to the cutting edges. Chrome- plated scabbard shows light surface wear with minor loss of plating on scabbard shell and a few tiny pinhead size “pecks” to scabbard shell. Scabbard is complete with two integral scabbard bands/rings with a vertical propeller in the center. The portepee with correct small acorn grades MINT with no wear or age. The standard tan/brown leather hangers with red leather backings grade EX+ showing light wear to leather and age patina to the brass fittings. A photograph of an Austrian Airman serving in the German Luftwaffe wearing this model dagger is shown on page 23 of World of Dress Daggers 1900-1945 by Robert J. Berger.