Dagger
Object number2015.4.3 a,b
Date1938-1940
MediumSteel, cellulite, cotton fabric, velvet, leather
Credit LineTransfer from the Carnegie Museum of Natural History
DescriptionDagger and scabbard.
Dagger with double edged steel blade and yellow cellulite grip. Blade narrows and comes to a sharp point with a raised ridge down the center. Dulled finish on handguard, oval decoration depicts a left-facing bird perched on a cross with a swastika on its chest. Raised horizontal ridges across the grip. Asterisk-shaped bolt at the bottom of the pommel. Leather stopper piece around the base of the blade.
Silver, metal scabbard. Silver double fabric hanger straps with red accent thread and oval buckles attached to a clip. Surface of metal scabbard has a raised pebble design with two raised bands where the straps attach.Dimensions(a) 14.625" L, 2.125" W, 1" D (b) 10.625" L, 1.25" W, 0.50" D
Strap adds 10-11"
MarksCarnegie number 20905/2 in black on one side of parts (a) and (b).
CMNH tag was removed but reads: "GERMANY / 20,905/2 / Red cross dagger / WWII / [Mann]"
Historical NotesThis German Red Cross leader dagger was brought back from Europe after WWII by James L. Swauger. James L. Swauger was a western Pennsylvania native who worked at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History before being drafted into the army during World War II. He served with the 796th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion and earned the rank of captain by war's end. After the war, Swauger returned to the Carnegie Museum until his retirement. The German Red Cross leader and subordinate daggers were introduced in 1938 for dress wear by officers of the rank of Wachtfuhrer and above.
Related institution
Nazi Party
Related institution
German Red Cross
Subjects
Terms
On View
Not on view
1936-1945
1945
