Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Sturmabteilung Dagger, by H. & F. Lauterjung

(Sturmabteilung Dolch). A very well-preserved Model 1933 Sturmabteilung (SA) dagger, measuring 375 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 220 mm-long polished magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is a finely-detailed inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark reading “H. & F. LAUTERJUNG, SOLINGEN”. The blade sits firmly within a nickel-silver upper crossguard, marked with eight notches, with four distributed at both the top and bottom. A polished dark brown piece of wood comprises the handle grip, and is curved to provide a comfortable grip. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered bronze insignia in the form of a SA-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h). Also inset into the lower portion of the handle is a partially-silvered SA insignia, measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly bearing eight notched, which is secured in place with a rounded pommel nut that maintains the overall structural integrity of the dagger. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft. Silvered bronze fixtures are riveted to the scabbard at both the tip and throat. The throat fixture features an integral loop for the accommodation of a hanger, and retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include running marks and oxidation of the blade, some scratching and fatigue of the wooden handle grip, and scratching and loss of finish to the scabbard. The dagger is in an overall better than very fine condition.