Uncleaned Army Officer Dagger w/Potepee & Hangers. Puma, without diamond over Solingen TM. This uncleaned dagger was recently obtained from the son of WWII Captain, Baalis X Grubbs, 63rd Infantry Division. A short history of the 63rd "Blood and Fire Division" in WWII, as well as color scan of the unit's distinctive shoulder patch, is included with the dagger. As indicated on page 78 of, Exploring the Dress Daggers of the German Army by Thomas T. Wittmann, "generic" crossguards were used by the Puma (Lauterjung & Sohn) Company. This dagger is an example of this practice. This uncleaned example features dark, almost black age patina to the well detailed 12 oak leaf embellished pommel,as well as the generic pattern crossguard, with small slope to the brow area between the upper head and beak of the eagle. Edge of the pommel shows wear to the plating. Medium orange, solid celluloid grip shows surface wear with age toning to the recesses of the grip swirls, but no nicks or chips. Polished blade grades VG+ showing surface wear/runner marks with evidence of grinding to edges and lower obverse/reverse. This grinding has resulted in graying to the lower blade and nicks to the lower cutting edges. Blade is complete with brown leather blade buffer pad. Dent-free, silver-plated steel scabbard shows dark age patina matching the hilt fittings with minor crazing, but no lifting to plating on edges of scabbard shell. Scabbard throat is retained by two side-mounted, dome-head screws. Dagger is complete with Exc+ 42cm aluminum portepee and VG+/Exc. standard hangers showing wear to fabric and fittihngs Original, veteran acquired combination with documentation. Exc. (24724) $875.