Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice example of the "von Stein" variation of the popular Feldmarschall (Field Marshal) series of German "Dove Head" officer swords. It was made by famed firm Carl Eickhorn of Solingen, the legendary "City of Blades" in western Germany. The Field Marshal series was quite popular, and had a total of nine different variations, named after famous figures in German history, many of which were high ranking military officers. These included the Wrangel, Scharnhorst, Freiherr vom Stein, Roon, Derfflinger, Zieten, and Blücher patterns. The Prinz Eugen and Lützow patterns were added in 1938 and 1939, which are the rarest patterns to find.

The Pattern 1714 - von Stein Sword is named after Heinrich Friedrich Karl vom und zum Stein (25 October 1757 – 29 June 1831), commonly known as Reichsfreiherr vom Stein (Imperial Baron vom Stein). He was a Prussian Statesman who introduced the Prussian reforms, which paved the way for the unification of Germany. He also promoted the abolition of serfdom, with indemnification to territorial lords; subjection of the nobles to manorial imposts; and the establishment of a modern municipal system. He was not a military commander, unlike the other historical figures that the "Field Marshall" series were namd after, however his importance to the formation of the German empire is undeniable.

This piece is a real treasure as it is not constructed from the later war aluminum, but rather is made of solid brass. It really looks magnificent, retaining much of the finely gilded finish, and comes with a great black enamel finished steel scabbard. This type is described in Swords of Germany 1900-1945 by John R. Angolia on page 79, and is very much the prototype for other Dove head swords made by other makers. The "dove's head" back strap and pommel, "P"-guard, and ferrule are all covered with embossed and hand-enhanced German Oak Leaf and Acorn motifs, which also extend onto the grip side tabs. The cross guard features a closed-wing Reichsadler Eagle which looks to the viewer's left. This art-deco eagle has fine crispness to his eye, breast feathering and raised out swas (hook cross) within a wreath.

The hilt is mostly tight to the blade, though the ferrule definitely had a good amount of wobble. The black celluloid covered wooden grip is tightly wrapped with a skein of six brass wires, which are twisted into pairs, with the center pair thicker than the outer ones. The celluloid itself is still in great shape, showing a shiny surface with no degradation or cracking like we sometimes see. The top of the cross guard is stamped GES. GESCH., for Gesetzlich Geschützt (Protected By Law), indicating that the hewer is a trademarked design.

The blade on this sword is an incredible example. It measures 30 7/8 inches and has the highest quality nickel plating. This plating is in great shape with only a few spots of wear. There are a few minor dents on the edge, but nothing easily visible, and no chips or major damage.

The reverse ricasso is stamped with the 1935-41 Eickhorn trademark: a seated squirrel holding a sword, with the word ORIGINAL above and the firm's name and location, Eickhorn / SOLINGEN below. Unfortunately the chappe/rainguard partly covers the area, so we were not able to get a complete photograph. The original leather blade buffer is in place, and in good shape.

Carl Eickhorn is a legendary maker from Solingen, the famous "City of Blades" in Western Germany. According to J. Anthony Carter's book, GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS, this company was founded in 1865 by Carl Eickhorn, and is arguably the most famous of all Solingen makers. Not only could the family trace their history back 500 years, but they could also demonstrate involvement in the hardening and grinding industries for the same period. Truly the nobility of Solingen Edged weapon dynasties. Eickhorn edged weapons are the most desirable of all makers.

The scabbard of this example still has a very good black enamel finish, it is retained at over 85% with no dents that we can see or feel. There is a lovely pattern of checking and crazing in the enamel, and we do not see any evidence that it has ever been repainted. There are a few areas of finish loss where it has oxidized, but overall this is one of the better examples that we have seen. There is some wear near the hanger ring, through to the base metal as is typical, and the rectangular ring for "hitching up" the sword is still intact.

This is a wonderful looking sword, from a very prestigious maker. If you are looking for a great example to hang on the wall, this one should do it!

Specifications:
Overall length: 35 3/4”
Blade length: 30 7/8”
Blade Style: Single Edged with Fuller
Guard dimensions: 5" width x 4 1/2” length
Scabbard Length: 32"