German HJ (Hitler Youth) dagger with scabbard, dated 1940 and manufactured by Gustav C. Spitzer of Solingen, a well-known centre for edged weapon production in Germany. This example follows the standard pattern introduced in the 1930s for issuing to members of the Hitler Youth organisation.
The dagger comprises a single-edged steel blade of typical form. The reverse ricasso is stamped with the maker’s mark “RM7/80”, identifying it as produced by Gustav C. Spitzer, as well as the number “40” for 1940. The blade is housed within a metal scabbard, usually finished in black paint, and an integral leather frog.
The hilt consists of a grip with chequered plates, incorporating a central enamel diamond device bearing the HJ swastika emblem. The pommel and crossguard are of metal construction, nickel-plated on zinc alloy.
HJ daggers were introduced as part of the uniform dress for members of the Hitler Youth, a youth organisation in Nazi Germany. Over time, production standards and materials changed in response to wartime conditions, making dated and maker-marked examples useful for identification and study.
Dimensions
Approx. 245mm overall length
Approx. 140mm blade length
Condition
Poor. The blade shows signs of age and sharpening, and the maker’s mark remains clearly visible. The scabbard finish exhibits wear and scratches and lacks most of its original paint. The leather frog has a replacement brass rivet and a missing cap on the securing strap button. The grip plates are cracked on both sides, severely on the side opposing the emblem, however all of it is present. The enamel insignia itself is cracked; however, there are no visible chips. This is ideal as a restoration project or to be used for spares
