Antique Swiss Infantry Officer's Dagger, Circa 1940.

Awesome Swiss infantry officer dager forged in the mid-20th century (Word War II) and in striking condition. The dagger has a lean shiny steel blade, with no traces of rust or wear. The hilt is made of steel and wood and the scabbard is made of black leather. It includes a portapee with a tassel, woven in the colors of the Swiss flag (white and red). The daggers blade bears an engraved inscription near the hilt, reading ELSENER SCHWYZ. It corresponds to the company founded by Karl Elsener in the late 19th century to manufacture knives, blades and swords. The daggers hilt has a straight and short cross-guard, typical of these weapons. The hilt is covered and reinforced by two riveted solid-wooden pieces. It boasts a lovely golden brown color and remains in great condition. The grip is trimmed by a steel pommel. Wrapping the hilt we find a lovely portapee, a double red and white wool cord trimmed by a tassel. The portapee was intended to connect the weapon to the bearers wrist so it could not be lost in the middle of the battle. Last but not least, the dagger is protected by a fine and sober black-leather scabbard with a leather-and-metal piece to hang it from the uniform. Its great beauty and elegant design turn this Swiss infantry officer dagger into an exclusive piece. Measurements: Dagger: 902 in / 23.5 cm. Blade and Scabbard: 9.2 in / 21 cm.Karl Elsener and Victorinox History In 1884, Karl Elsener founded a factory to make blades, knives and swords in Switzerland. In 1909, Elseners mother died and her son decided to change the company name to Victoria (her name) as homage. In 1921 the firm included the suffix inox (the French word for stainless steel) and created the famous brand Victorinox, widely known for being the only and official suppliers of knives for the Swiss army. The brand logo is a Swiss cross inside a shield. Today it is a big company that produces other articles apart from knives: watches, travelling material, clothing, etc.