These days, we most often see customs officers on highways, where they inspect passing trucks, or we read about them in connection with the seizure of contraband. A pistol tucked into the belt is an integral part of the image of these men and women in black uniforms. The idea that they might carry a small sword at their side instead seems absurd to us.
Czechoslovak customs officers carried a small sword until 1939, pursuant to Government Decree No. 131/1932 of July 22, 1932. The sword was worn on the left hip over the coat or jacket of the then-newly introduced dark green service uniform. With the modified First Republic coat of arms, it was subsequently worn by customs officers of the newly formed Slovak State.
Mikov produces an exact replica of this sword for collectors and fans of edged weapons. Each piece is a handcrafted original with a serial number from the production run. The only difference from the First Republic originals is that the blade’s ricasso—where the marks of the original manufacturers, which no longer exist, were once inscribed—now bears the Mikov mark.
The customs dagger is, of course, supplied complete with a scabbard, belt loop, and tassel in a gift box. Together with the Model 27 aviation dagger, the commemorative dagger, and the Model 24/27 dress saber, it ranks among the finest handcrafted products with high added value from manual labor—products we at Mikov are justifiably proud to produce.
You can order the customs sword here.