Superb Kreigsmarine WW II Sword with Provenance.

German Naval Officers Sword, Scabbard and Knot

This sword is either an early Kriegsmarine or even Riechsmarine Naval Officers Sword. Produced by the famous Alexander Coppell firm of Alcoso of Solingen, as logo with scales indicates on blade.  Pipe-back blade, plain but in very good condition with no deterioration and intact point and edge.  The blade itself is gently curved and measures 27.1/2″ in length.  Overall the Sword is 33.1/2″ in its scabbard.

Brass gold covered full guard with Naval anchors and folding rear portion of the same.  Clear red rubber buffer at top of blade – intact.  White bone, ivory or celluloid grip, bound with twisted wire – intact.  Lions head pommel with mane to strap and solid silver knot attached.  Black leather scabbard with brass fittings and two hanging rings.  The whole item being in excellent condition with minimal signs of ageing although an even patina of age all over.

Removed from Kiel Naval base in 1945 by colour Sgt. Jim Atkin of the 46th Royal Marine Commando Coastal Raiding force. Story of its liberation related by the son of the the Sgt as follows;- 46 Royal Marine Commando was part of 1 Commando Brigade and were in Neustadt, on Kiel Bay on the 5th May 1945. “The Sword with Scabbard & Knot were removed by my father, Colour Sgt, Jim “Tommy” Atkin of 46 Commando Royal Marine Raiding Force.  He landed with the Canadians on Juno beach on D-Day and went on to occupy Kiel dockyard where he acquired the sword.”  46 RM Commando remained in Germany until 8th June 1945 on occupation duties, first on the Isle of Fehmarn, South-east Kiel, and then at Bad Schwarteau on the outskirts of Lubeck.

It is rare to find such a definite link attached to a trophy of war, but when it does happen it makes the item so much more interesting.

A fine sword in itself but with some interesting history attached.  Also with the sword are three photos of Sgt Jim Atkins in uniform.

£ 950.

Comments Off on Superb Kreigsmarine WW II Sword with Provenance.