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This German Land Customs Officer's dagger is a superb example of mid-20th-century blade craftsmanship, dating from the 1937–1945 period and preserved in outstanding condition. The primary highlight of this specimen is its slender high-grade steel blade, which retains its complete, original factory crossgrain and mint luster, indicating the weapon was never sharpened or improperly cleaned. The ricasso prominently displays the deeply struck manufacturer's mark of Alexander Coppel, Solingen, showing the iconic ACS scales logo and the full Alcoso brand name. The grip consists of a wooden core tightly wrapped in original dark green leather, accented by a precise spiral wrap of silver wire. The aluminum crossguard and pommel show crisp casting details and a natural, subtle patina. The steel scabbard is fully covered in matching green leather with complete aluminum fittings, which, combined with the mint Alcoso blade, makes this an investment-grade historical artifact.
Historical context:
Land Customs daggers were officially instituted in 1937 as a ceremonial part of the Zollgrenzschutz official's uniform, with green leather being reserved exclusively for land-based border guard formations. Alcoso was among the top-tier Solingen-based manufacturers, supplying high-quality edged weapons to diplomats and senior state officials, clearly demonstrated by the preserved state of this blade. Due to the prestigious nature of the customs service and the relatively low production numbers, daggers by Alcoso featuring their original factory finish are exceptionally rare and highly sought after by serious collectors of World War II-era edged weapons.