Germany, SA. A Rare Model 1933 Feldherrnhalle Service Dagger, by J.A. Henckels

(SA Dienstdolch M33). A rare and well-preserved 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 ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “J.A. HENCKELS, ZWILLINGSWERK, SOLINGEN’, circumscribing the firm’s classic stick figure logo. 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 is an initial “W”, signifying a scarce group mark believed to indicate issue to Feldherrnhalle personnel. The handle grip is constructed 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 clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h). Also inset into the obverse ricasso is a partially-silvered SA logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, which is secured in place with 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 fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the latter retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, scratching of the handle grip, and some loss of scabbard paint. This rare example of a blade issued to Feldherrnhalle personnel remains in a near extremely fine condition.