About the item: An authentic medieval (Gothic era) long iron fighting dagger (corresponding to a double-edged combat knife or dagger) – a rare and powerful 15th-century edged weapon artifact. This 35.5 cm long combat piece reflects the blacksmithing traditions of the late Middle Ages and the evolution of weaponry in Europe. The item stands out for its authentic historical surface, structural strength, and a valuable, completely transparent, and documented provenance from German collectors. Valued for its defensive and military significance, this dagger is an excellent example in the antiques market of the heritage of professional knightly or mercenary warfare from that era.
Technical information:
Length: 35.5 cm
Width: 3 cm
Thickness: 0.6 cm
Origin: Europe
Period/Epoch: 15th century (Late Middle Ages / Gothic)
Culture: Medieval knightly / military culture
Material: Forged iron Condition: Very good (Good) / Excellent – the blade of the weapon is stable, with an integral structure, retaining its authentic surface relief formed by centuries of corrosion and a darkened iron patina. Provenance: The item belonged to the collection of a private collector from Southern Germany, formed in the 1970s–1980s. Acquired by the current owner in 1979 at an auction. Prior to that, the item belonged to the private collection of Dr. Matthias Köhler, where it had been documented since 1966 (also acquired at an auction). The seller guarantees legal status and handles all necessary dispatch and cultural property transport permits.
Artistic and structural analysis: This military weapon features solid proportions and a narrow, elongated profile designed for maximum piercing power to penetrate gaps between knightly armor plates. The blade is double-edged, straight, and gracefully tapering, with a clearly formed ridge or longitudinal ribs running along the axis. The lower part retains the original socket or a fragment of the handle base, showing authentic attachment rivet placements or holes. Deep, natural traces of time and soil burial (pitting) are visible on the surface, forming a rough but stable texture. There are no artificial coatings or modern modifications, allowing a close-up view of the true craftsmanship of medieval metallurgists.
Historical and geographical context: The 15th century in Europe was marked by intense military conflicts (such as the Hundred Years' War, the Wars of the Roses, or the late echoes of the Crusades). During this period, with the rapid advancement of full plate knightly armor, standard swords often became less effective, resulting in a need for long, sturdy military daggers and knives in a knight's or professional soldier's equipment. Such weapons were worn on the belt on the right side and used in close combat to find unprotected areas of the opponent's armor (e.g., under the armpits or underneath the helmet visor). The Southern Germany region, where this collection originates, was one of the strongest centers of metallurgy and gunsmithing in the Holy Roman Empire during the 15th century.
Collectible and investment value: The value of this medieval military dagger in the antiques market is defined by several key aspects: Weapon type and size – long military blades that have retained their geometric integrity and have not broken over the centuries are much rarer than small domestic knives or arrowheads. Provenance – an uninterrupted, reliable provenance chain starting as early as 1966 in the collection of Dr. M. Köhler is crucial, eliminating any risk of forgery and guaranteeing the item's authenticity.
Legal clarity – the fact that the item has been legally circulating in the European art market for over half a century ensures absolute investment reliability. Exhibition potential – the object possesses high visual impact, making it an exceptional highlight for old weapon collections, a valuable addition to history museums, or a luxurious interior element. This over 500-year-old military weapon from the Gothic era is an authentic document of knightly European warfare history, harmoniously combining ancient blacksmith craftsmanship, the durability of iron, and high collectible and investment potential.
