Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Dagger, SA Group Hesse, by Carl Eickhorn

(Sturmabteilung Dolch). A Model 1933 Sturmabteilung (SA) dagger, measuring 37.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22.5 cm nickel-plated magnetic steel blade with a sharpened tip and edges. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a stamped maker’s ark of “CARL EICKHORN, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic squirrel logo. It sits securely within a nickel-silver upper crossguard marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. Stamped into the reverse are initials “HE” indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Hessen (SA Group Hesse). The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered dark brown wood carved into a curvature for a comfortable grip. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered German national eagle measuring 2.5 cm (w) x 1.5 cm (h). Also inset into the obverse pommel is a partially-silvered SA logo measuring 1 cm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, secured in place with a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its matching crossguard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft with nickel-silver fittings riveted in place at both the tip and throat. The latter retains an integral loop for suspension from a hanger. The dagger demonstrates numerous issues consistent with age and wear, including some tarnishing of the blade with evidence of re-finishing to highlight the inscription, chipping and loss of finish to the handler, loss of paint throughout the scabbard, and the loss of the scabbard throat spring catch. It is in an overall fair condition.