Swiss M1943 Officer Dagger - sn 12080
Swiss model 1943 dagger (Unteroffizierdolch) made by Elsener Schwyz. Includes white portepee which has been discolored with age. Scabbard is not included. Serial number indicates manufacture year of 1944.
The Swiss dagger (Schweizerdolch) is a distinctive type of dagger used in Switzerland. The characteristic mark of the Swiss dagger are two crescent-shaped, inward-bent metal bars delimiting the hilt. The curved shape of the Swiss dagger hilt appeared as early as the 13th century and remained peculiar to Switzerland. The blade was characteristically double edged, tapering to a point and usually had a diamond shape cross-section. There are two types of military portepees that were used with these daggers. White portepee indicated an officer, while red and white portepee indicated a higher NCO.