Water Customs Official’s Dagger, Germany, Third Reich, E. & F. Horster

Water Customs Official’s Dagger, Germany, Third Reich, E & F Horster, Solingen. German Water Customs Service Officer's dagger (Wasserschutz-Zollbeamterdolch), complete with its scabbard. This model was issued exclusively to officers of the Water Customs branch of the Reichsfinanzverwaltung, responsible for border and maritime customs enforcement. The double-edged blade, finely etched and well-preserved, bears the maker’s mark of E. & F. Hörster, Solingen. The gilt brass hilt features the national eagle and wreath emblem, while the grip is covered in leather wrapped with twisted wire, and finished with pommel. The leather scabbard retains all gilt brass fittings and suspension rings. A highly desirable and rarely encountered official Water Customs dagger, representing one of the most distinctive and elegant edged weapons of the period. Good condition, the wire on the handle is damaged. Authenticity not guaranteed. Length: approx. 41.5 cm.