A Rare German, Third Reich, Second Pattern Luftwaffe General's Presentation Sword, 20th С.

A Rare WWII German, Third Reich, Second Pattern Luftwaffe General's Presentation Sword by Eickhorn, Solingen. This exceptional artifact is a Second Pattern Luftwaffe General’s sword, distinguished further as a presentation or honor piece (Ehrenschwert) awarded by the Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe. Measuring 94 cm in total length, the sword features a magnificent gilded hilt assembly deeply cast with oak leaf motifs on the pommel and knuckle bow. The distinctive clamshell langet displays a silvered Luftwaffe flying eagle clutching a swastika, set against a stippled gold background framed by oak leaves. The grip is crafted from ribbed orange celluloid (or trolon) and tightly bound with twisted wire. The most striking feature of this sword is its blade, which bears an elaborate blued and gilded presentation inscription panel. The obverse and reverse are richly etched with intricate floral and scrollwork bordering the text. The inscription reads in Gothic script: "In dankbarer Anerkennung" (In grateful recognition) followed by "Der Oberbefehlshaber der Luftwaffe Hermann Göring" (The Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe), culminating in a reproduction of Göring's signature. The ricasso is clearly stamped with the original squirrel trademark of Carl Eickhorn, Solingen, a premier manufacturer of Third Reich edged weapons. The sword is accompanied by its dark, leather-covered scabbard, complete with matching gilded metal fittings including the throat and drag. The item is in good condition, representing a highly significant piece of World War II aviation history and high-ranking military regalia.