Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 hour ago
Many of you will have seen the scarred faces of German officers, but this was often not a war wound. These were inflicted during ritualised fencing, the goal being to land and take a slash to the face with dignity. These scars were an important symbol, representing bravery, stoicism and one’s character. In today’s video we will look at the Schmiss, the disturbing duelling scars and why such scars were popular.
Many of you will have seen the scarred faces of German officers, but this was often not a war wound. These were inflicted during ritualised fencing, the goal being to land and take a slash to the face with dignity. These scars were an important symbol, representing bravery, stoicism and one’s character. In today’s video we will look at the Schmiss, the disturbing duelling scars and why such scars were popular.
