Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, Partially Ground-Out Röhm Version, by Ernst Pack & Söhne

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33, mit Röhm-Widmung). An interesting Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22 cm-long, 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 bears the remnants of a crudely ground-out Röhm dedication, with the name of the SA-Stabschef removed and the dedication of “IN HERZLICHER FREUNDSCHAFT” (“IN HEARTFELT FRIENDSHIP”) still partially visible. Also visible are traces of the maker’s mark of Ernst Pack & Söhne, Solingen. The blade sits securely within a nickel-silver upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. Stamped onto the reverse of the crossguard are initials “NM” indicating issue to SA-Gruppe Nordmark. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered brown wood, carved into a curvature for a comfortable grip. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h). Also inset into the obverse of the pommel is a partially-silvered SA insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, retaining a rounded pommel nut that screws in to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fittings are riveted to both the tip and throat. Emanating from the latter is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. The former is included and consists of a functional nickel-silver spring clip attached to a brown leather strap with a functional buckle. The throat retains a functional spring catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Some issues are evident in addition to the partial removal of the Röhm dedication, and include tarnishing and running marks to the blade, loss of scabbard paint, and fatigue to the hanger leather. An interesting example of a modified Röhm dagger that remains in a better than very fine condition.