Original German WWII NCO Dove's Head Sword by WKC Waffenfabrik with Steel Scabbard

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a nice example of the relatively plain Dove Head sword worn by Army NCO's, made by the legendary Solingen-based firm of Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie (WKC) Waffenfabrik. This sword design is a simplified version of the Officer's dove's head sword, without the decorative designs and engraving usually seen on the hilt. It has the standard "P" guard used on German dress swords, with a simple cross guard and plain rain guards (chappes). The hilt on this example is brass, originally gilt, but now displaying a lovely oxidized patina. We have also seen these in nickel plated steel, as well as solid nickel, so there looks to have been a wide variety of materials used.

The grip is a very nice black celluloid over a wood base, which is still shiny, showing no cracks or other damage. It is wrapped with twisted brass wire, however this is missing below the side tabs on the grip. There is still a broken leather finger loop on the inside of the guard, and there is also the original leather blade buffer on top of the guard. The hilt is overall still tight on the blade, with no wobble.

The 29 1/2” blade of this example is in very good condition, and does not show any signs of major use or abuse. These were ceremonial swords, and not really intended for cutting, and there are just a few dents on the blunt edge. The nickel-plating is close to 100%, with just some oxidation under the langet, as well a some scuffing on the body of the blade.

The ricasso is stamped with the trademark "Knight's Helmet" (Ritter-helm) logo of legendary maker Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie Waffenfabrik of Solingen, which is partially hidden under the langet:

(Knight's Helmet)
W K C

This company is a famous manufacturer of military swords and cutlery in Solingen, Germany - a city famous since the middle ages for its metal-working and craftsmanship in sword making. Per J. Anthony Carter's fine work GERMAN SWORD AND KNIFE MAKERS, the traditional manufacturing of swords at WKC dates back to the year 1774 when the Weyersberg first registered the ''Kings head'' as their trademark. Later in 1883 the company merged with the Kirschbaums, and the company Weyersberg Kirschbaum & Cie was formed, which continued into the Weimar Period. It was then rebranded as W.K.C. Waffenfabrik GmbH, and produced many edged weapons during the NSDAP Period. The company is still in operation today.

The scabbard of this example is straight and free of major dents, still retaining the original black enamel lacquer at about 85%. There is some checking, crazing, and scratching in the finish, with no signs of having been refinished. We can see some scuffing and light oxidation, but overall it's a really great example of this type. The original hanger ring and square loop for "hitching up" the sword are still intact.

Overall a very good condition high quality NCO sword, made by a legendary German sword maker, based in Solingen, the "City of Blades" in Western Germany. Ready to hang on the wall!

Dimensions:
Blade length: 29 1/2”
Overall length: 34 1/8”
Handguard: 4 1/2”L x 5 1/2”W
Scabbard length: 30 3/8"