Believe it or not, this rather standard looking dagger is apparently a very rare Eickhorn Third Reich variation. In the Eickhorn catalog (photocopy of page included) this variation is shown as Model Number 26. The consignor states that this Eickhorn variation was apparently made in very small numbers, for none like it is shown in any reference books that he is aware of. Keep in mind that by 1934 the German Hunting Association adopted a dagger variation with all silver finished fittings and with the DJ Insignia mounted in the center of the stag grip instead of having the three acorns on the grip as this example. This probably explains why this particular gold finished model dagger by Eickhorn is apparently so rare. The stag grip on this example is very unusual with a very light tan color throughout. The cross guard is the standard up and down hoof design, and the clamshell is the standard fluted design. The scabbard is wrapped with black leather entirely over a solid under shell, for there is no stitching seam on the reverse side of the scabbard. The blade has a beautiful triple etch pattern, with oak leaves along the spine. The front and reverse side blade have etched hunting scene patterns, but are of a design not normally found on 1933 and later hunting daggers. At the base area of the etch patterns on both sides of the blade (closest to the hilt) there is the marking "Ges. Geschutz" which indicates that the etch patterns are patent protected. Stamped into the reverse side blade ricasso is the 1935-41 Eickhorn trademark.

Excellent. The blade is in excellent original condition, with the original green felt buffer pad still in place. All of the fittings on this dagger show some wear and patina from actual use. A rare Eickhorn dagger variation. For Eickhorn collectors, this may be your only chance to purchase a Model Number 26 that is likely missing from even the most advanced collections.