An original Japanese naval officer’s dagger, Model 1883, is offered for sale.

This type of dagger was used by officers of the Imperial Japanese Navy from the late 19th century up to the early stages of World War II.

Specifications:

• Original blade with traditional shape
• Brass guard featuring naval insignia
• Grip wrapped in leather or traditional material (specify if known)
• Metal scabbard with period-correct fittings
• Condition: Good, with natural patina and signs of age

A rare and valuable piece for collectors of edged weapons and Japanese military history.

The front side features the Luftwaffe eagle, while the reverse side bears the inscription:

“Fliegerhorst Kommandantur Ingolstadt” (Airfield Headquarters Ingolstadt).

Fliegerhorst Ingolstadt-Manching Airfield

Construction of the airfield began in 1936 with the creation of taxiways, and from spring 1937 onward, various buildings were erected. In April 1938, the completed airfield was handed over to the military and officially named “Fliegerhorst Ingolstadt”.

During World War II, the base hosted various flight schools, including fighter and night-fighter schools, which operated Messerschmitt Bf 110 aircraft.

The Bf 110 was actively used during the French campaign, in the Battle of Britain (where it proved vulnerable against RAF fighters), and later as a night interceptor defending the Reich.

Its primary equipment included radar systems and heavy armament for engaging enemy bombers.

From mid-1944, the airfield was heavily bombed by Allied forces, with particularly intense raids in April 1945.

On April 26, 1945, the airfield was captured by the United States Army.