Germany, SS. A Model 1933 SS Dagger

(SS Dolch). A Model 1933 SS dagger, measuring 380 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 220 mm-long polished magnetic metal dagger with a sharpened tip and sharpened edges. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “MEINE EHRE HEIßT TREUE” (“MY HONOUR IS LOYALTY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears an etched Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo, a maker’s code of “M7/67” for Gottlieb Hammesfahr, Solingen-Foche, a manufacture date of “1940”, and a SS logo. The blade sits within a silver-plated zink alloy upper crossguard, marked with eight notches, with four set into both the top and bottom. The handle is composed of a single piece of blackened and polished wood, contoured for a comfortable grip. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered bronze insignia consisting of a SS-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 26 mm (w) x 16 mm (h). Also inset into the handle is a blackened and silvered SS insignia, measuring 10 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a silvered zink alloy lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, and secured together with a rounded pommel nut which maintains its structural integrity. It is accompanied by a period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Affixed to both the tip and throat are polished and silvered non-ferrous metal fittings, both secured in place with dual side rivets. Emanating from the throat fixture is a suspension loop for attachment to a dagger hanger, while the throat also retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. While well-preserved, the dagger demonstrates evidence of parts replacement, in addition to running marks to the blade, and slight loss of finish to both the silver-plated and black-painted features. This composite dagger is in an overall very fine condition.