Early 1st Model Luftwaffe Dagger w/Accountability Markings. Gebr Heller Marienthal b. Schweina/Thr. in three-line curve beneath balloon seller TM. On p. 193 of The Sword and Knife Makers of Germany 1850-2000 Volume I, A-L by the late Anthony Carter, the author states, …"1st pattern Luftwaffe daggers…were made with the balloon seller trademark above the curved three line company name and address". Silver-plated hilt fittings show light surface wear/age patina to pommel, upper and lower ferrules and crossguard with no loss of plating to background of the brass pommel and crossguard swastikas. The underside of the right quillon is unit marked, "28/2" (weapon Nr. 28 Staffel 2). Dark blue leather grip shows light surface wear/minor loss of color, but no rips or tears, and is complete with tight, triple wire wrap. Plated blade grades EX++ showing light surface wear/runner marks and one tiny nick to lower right cutting edge, but no lifting or pitting, and is complete with blue leather blade buffer pad. Blue leather covered scabbard shows minor wear/age with one nick/cut to lower center obverse, but no rips, tears or damage to seam. Nickel-silver, upper, center, and lower scabbard fittings show light surface wear/age patina matching the hilt fittings with several minor depressions to lower fitting, but no damage to the five, flush-mounted retaining screws present. Scabbard throat is stamped with the matching "28/2". Early nickel-silver chain hanger featuring 9 upper and 14 lower rings shows light age/wear and is complete with early unmarked, nickel-silver clip. Nice early, unit marked example with accountability markings. EX+/EX++ (25902) $1,495. SOLD