2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger w/Factory Lacquer, Portepee & Deluxe Hangers. AWS scales alongside a script Alcoso, above Solingen TM. As stated on page 106 of The Sword and Knife Makers of Germany 1850 - 2000 Volume I by the late Anthony Carter, "The post-1940 daggers were marked…A W S for Alcoso-Werk, Solingen…alongside a script Alcoso above Solingen". This superb, late production, Alcoso dagger was recently obtained from the widow of an Alabama WW II Army veteran. The veteran spoke German and was involved in interrogating German nationals at the end of the war and consequently acquired many German artifacts. The dagger features aluminum hilt fittings which retain virtually 100% of the factory finish and lacquer to the oak leaf embellished pommel and superbly detailed eagle on the crossguard langet. The pommel swastikas were never gilded. The off-white, celluloid-over-wood grip shows yellow age toning with one tiny 1/16" long hairline crack on the upper reverse adjacent to the lower edge of the pommel, but no nicks or chips, and is complete with tight twisted, wire wrap. The polished blade grades EX++/Near MINT showing light runner marks with minor gray shadowing, but no pitting or nicks to cutting edges, and is complete with brown leather blade buffer pad. Dent-free steel scabbard grades Near MINT retaining virtually 100% of the factory finish and lacquer on the scabbard shell and oak leaf suspension bands/rings. The scabbard exhibits the more rounded look to the shell as often found on Alcoso examples and the scabbard throat is secured by two flat head retaining screws. The 23cm portepee, which appears original to the dagger, grades EX++ showing only minor age with no rips or tears. The deluxe hangers grade EX++ showing minor wear/age to the facings and velvet backings but no fraying or tears. The deluxe fittings retain virtually 100% of the factory finish and lacquer with the reverse of the deluxe upper fitting is marked, "U.E.10 RZM" and "D.R.G.M". Superb, veteran estate acquired 2nd Model Luftwaffe Dagger. Near MINT (26287) $1,050.