Italy, R.S.I. - San Marco Battalion “Lion’s Head” Officers Dagger

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Italy, WWII - Fascist Repubblica Sociale Modello 1936 Italiana “Testa di Leone” Pugnale da ufficiale del Battaglione San Marco. In 1936, this dagger was developed for the Marines and distributed to the personnel of the San Marco Battalion. The double edged, 7 3/16 inch long, spear point blade on this one looks good. It shows age grey, spotting and surface scratches throughout. The blade ridges butt against a surrounded oval brass guard. The steel scabbard is black painted. It remains dent free and holds 80% paint coverage. Typical scratches and oxidization spotting throughout. The reverse sheet metal hanger is riveted and screwed in place. The throat is brass based. The hit is constructed out of two pieces of molded black bakelite. There is a fasces to each side and the pommel top features the identifying “Lion Head” with a waved mane (representing Venice). It has some chips and cracks. This is an extremely rare piece!