Original Imperial German WWI 26th (2nd Württemberg) Dragoons M1889 Presentation Sword by Eugen Klotz of Stuttgart

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice classic Nickel-Plated Imperial German WWI Presentation sword, used by a member of the 26th (2nd Württemberg) Dragoons. It conforms to the Model 1889 standard quite well, with a straight thrusting blade, and a basket hilt guard. The presentation version is of course quite less robust than the cavalry issue, and these were privately purchased, so there is no acceptance marking on the spine. There is a maker’s mark on the spine, reading EUGEN KLOTZ, STUTTGART.

The guard on this example is not fold-away like many of these were. It bears the Coat of Arms of Württemberg on the guard. The grip is molded bakelite or gutta percha, and is in fair shape, with heavy wear, and a small portion broken off at the top.

The 31 1/2 inch blade of this example is in fair condition, with some heavy damage across with oxidation poking through the plating. It has an incredible triple-etched design, meaning it is on both sides as well as the spine of the blade. The designs have the typical borders and floral designs.

The main panel on the right side also has a unit designation, written in German Black-Letter "Textura" type face:

Drag. Rgt. König (2. Württemberg) No. 26

This would indicate the soldier was a member of the 26th (2nd Württemberg) Dragoon Regiment. The 26th (2nd Württemberg) Dragoons “King”(Dragonerregiment „König“ (2. württembergisches) Nr. 26) was a cavalry regiment of the Army of Württemberg. The regiment was originally formed in 1805 as Mounted Rifles but reorganized as dragoons in 1870. In 1891 it was named after Prince William, then Crown Prince, and renamed King upon his accession to the throne as William II of Württemberg. The regiment took part in Napoleon's Russian campaign and fought in the Austro-Prussian War, the Franco-Prussian War, and was part of the 7th Cavalry Division in World War I. On 1 May 1919 the regiment was disbanded, with 4th Squadron/18th Horse bearing its tradition in the new Reichsheer.

Overall a heavily worn but highly attractive M1889 Cavalry Presentation sword, ready for further research and display.

Specifications:
Overall length: 36 1/2”
Blade length: 31 1/2”
Blade Style: Straight Single Edged Spear Point
Basket dimensions: 5" width x 5” length