Germany, NSKK. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, by Max Weyersberg

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Dienstdolch M33). A Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps (National Socialist Motor Corps/NSKK) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37.5 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. The reverse ricasso bears a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M7/12” for Max Weyersberg, Solingen. The blade sits securely within a silver-plated zink alloy upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. A single piece of lacquered brown wood composes the handle grip, and 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 ricasso is a partially-silvered Sturmabteilung (SA) insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Plated magnetic metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the latter retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. The throat also retains a functional spring catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Some issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks to the blade, loss of scabbard shaft paint with consequent surface oxidation, and additional loss of plating to the scabbard’s fixtures resulting in additional oxidation. A late-period example in very fine condition.