Description
Original Eickhorn Solingen, etched squirrel holding sword TM. This Army Dagger/medal grouping was recently obtained in Florida where it had been in storage for more than 25 years. The seller indicated that, “The dagger was part of my father’s estate, perhaps acquired by my late half-brother who fought in World War II”. The silver-plated hilt fittings show dark, gun-metal gray age patina to well detailed oak leaf embellished pommel, ferrule and crossguard with superb detail to eagle’s chest feathering and wreath/swastika. The fittings show virtually no wear with no lifting or speckling. Medium yellow, solid celluloid grip is perfect with only a few tiny age specks and light age toning but, no cracks or chips. Plated blade grades EX+/EX++ showing faint surface wear/runner marks and some light gray shadowing but, no pitting or nicks to cutting edges and is complete with tan leather buffer pad. The etched trademark retains 100% of the dark-gray background frosting. Dent-free, silver-plated scabbard shows dark age patina matching the hilt fittings with minor surface age spotting to the pebbled panels and edges of shell, and is complete with the thick throat and reverse, center mounted, flat-head screw often seen on Eickhorn produced Army daggers. The 42cm portepee grades EX++ showing light wear/age but, no fraying, while deluxe hangers, in EX+ condition, show minor wear/storage age to fabric and age to heavy deluxe fittings. The later production, zinc/gray metal War Merit Cross 2nd Class w/Swords shows minor age but, no oxidation or damage with the suspension ring maker stamped “55” (manufacturer’s code for the firm of J. E. Hammer & Söhne of Geringswald). Geringswald is located approximately 25km West of Dresden. The original, folded red/white/black ribbon is in MINT condition while the tan paper issue envelope shows surface wear/age with a few small tears to the edges and is stamped on the obverse in gothic print, “Kriegs=Verdienstkreuz 2.Klasse mit Schwerter” with the reverse envelope maker marked, “J. E. Hammer & Söhne Geringswald”. Documentation from the family is included with the grouping. EX++
