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The presented item is an original German Red Cross (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz or DRK) officer's dagger, introduced into use in 1938. It is a rare model, particularly sought after by collectors, often found with an unmarked blade, as is the case here.
Appearance and Condition
Perfect condition: The item is preserved in exceptionally good, almost perfect condition, which is a rarity for militaria from this period. All components are consistent and show no signs of disassembly.
Unmarked blade: The blade is unmarked (no visible manufacturer's logo on the ricasso), which is historically correct for this dagger model. The blade is in pristine condition.
Fittings and hilt: The metal fittings of the hilt and scabbard (silver-plated nickel/alloy base) are in excellent condition. The DRK emblem (eagle clutching a Geneva cross with a superimposed swastika) is visible on the oval crossguard medallion. The yellow-to-orange celluloid grip is intact, with no chips or cracks.
Hangers (straps): The dagger is equipped with complete, original beige/brown felt hangers and metal fittings. The hangers are also in perfect condition and are a rare find as a complete set.
Historical Context
The DRK Officer's Dagger Model 1938 was a formal dress item intended for the officer corps and leaders of the German Red Cross, an organization that was nationalized and militarized within the structure of the Third Reich. Despite its humanitarian origins (Red Cross), the organization served the Nazi regime, and its officers wore these elegant, status daggers during official ceremonies and duty. The production of these daggers was short-lived, from 1938 to around 1940.