Original Third Reich Model 1938 German Red Cross (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz, DRK) Leaders' Dagger with Portepee

Original Third Reich Model 1938 German Red Cross (Deutsches Rotes Kreuz, DRK) Leaders' Dagger with PortepeeThis is an authentic and well-preserved example of the Model 1938 German Red Cross (DRK) Leaders' Dagger, complete with its original scabbard and portepee. These daggers were worn by officers of the German Red Cross for ceremonial or dress purposes and were never intended for combat use. Overall, the dagger, scabbard, and portepee remain in very good to excellent condition.Grip:The dagger features the orange grip variant, typical of leader-grade Red Cross daggers. The grip has deep, well-defined ridges and remains in excellent condition, with only a short, stable hairline crack on the front, a common and minor flaw seen in these examples.Pommel & Crossguard:Both the pommel and crossguard are aluminum-based and retain a good amount of their original silver wash. The obverse of the crossguard displays the raised DRK eagle with a swastika on the chest, clutching a Geneva Conference Cross, a hallmark of this model. The reverse features the plain raised oval design. These fittings show some age and use, consistent with their vintage, but remain structurally sound and visually pleasing.Blade:The blade is in mint condition, retaining its original bright finish and complete crossgraining. The ricasso reflects the original nickel-plated surface, and the spear point is sharp and intact. The leather blade washer is present and in good shape. There is minimal wear or aging, making this an excellent example of a DRK blade.Scabbard:The scabbard is the correct matching silvered metal with a pebbled finish throughout. It remains straight with crisp pebbling on both front and back panels. There are minor surface rust spots in areas where the silver plating has worn off over time, but it still presents well.Both suspension rings are original and intact, and the smooth carrying bands feature proper rectangular clearance holes. The throat is secured by two untouched dome-head side screws, as it should be.Portepee:The dagger is fitted with its original aluminum bullion portepee, a textbook example consistent with Red Cross Leader daggers. It is in very good condition and adds to the completeness and display appeal of the piece.This is a highly collectible and textbook example of a German Red Cross Leader's Dagger, complete with its original scabbard and portepee. With a mint blade, attractive fittings, and overall solid condition, it's a fine example for any advanced Third Reich era edged weapon or Red Cross collection.