Germany, NSKK. A Model 1936 Chained Honour Dagger, by Robert Klaas

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Dienstdolch M36 mit Kette). A very well-preserved Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps (National Socialist Motor Corps/NSKK) Model 1936 Chained Honour Dagger, measuring 36.5 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. A transitional dagger, the reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “ROBERT KLASS, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic dual crane logo, in turn situated above a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code of “M7/37” for the same manufacturer. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of dark brown wood which is 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 pommel is a partially-silvered Sturmabteilung (SA) logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-plated lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, held in place with a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Magnetic metal fixtures are secured to the tip, mid-section, and throat. Emanating from the latter two are integral loops accommodating a multi-link magnetic metal chain, with four links bearing raised sunwheel-style swastikas, four bearing raised NSKK insignia, and one bearing a raised Thurs rune. The reverse of one link is stamped with an RZM logo and maker code of “M5/9” for Matthias Oechsler & Sohn, Ansbach. The two lengths culminate in the middle with a functional magnetic metal spring clip for uniform suspension. A functional spring catch in the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, with minor loss of scabbard paint. This superb transitional example is in a near extremely fine condition.