Germany, SA. A SA Dagger by David Malsch

(Sturmabteilung Dolch). A Sturmabteilung (SA) Dagger by David Malsch, Steinbach. Measuring 370 mm in length with the scabbard on, while the blade of the dagger itself measures 212 mm and is constructed of nickel-silver plated metal, acid-engraved with "Alles für Deutschland" (“Everything for Germany”) on the obverse. The reverse presents plain with the exception of a maker mark “DAVID MALSCH STEINBACH DM” stamped onto the centre of the ricasso. The blade fits neatly through the upper crossguard, itself constructed of nickel-silver plating, which in turn sits flush with the wooden handle that shows only minimal shrinkage from age. Eight notches are neatly carved into the upper cross guard, evenly distributed between the top and bottom. The reverse of the upper crossguard is etched with “Fr”, indicating the SA Franken region. The obverse of the wooden handle bears a metallic NSDAP “Parteiadler” (Party Eagle) emblem fitted within the wood, featuring an eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 14 mm (w). On the same side, just above the lower cross guard, sits a metallic Sturmabteilung logo, comprised of stylized “SA” initials measuring 9 mm in diameter. Similar to the upper crossguard, the lower also features eight carved notches. The dagger is held together by a nickel-silver pommel nut that sits tightly and securely in the lower crossguard. The scabbard measures 245.5 mm in length and is constructed of black-painted magnetic metal, with a nickel-silver plated metal fitting at the tip and throat. Although very well-preserved, this dagger is characterized by some wear consistent with use, including small scratches to the wood of the handle, running marks on the blade consistent with being inserted and extracted from the scabbard, and minor scratching to the nickel-silver plating.The dagger otherwise presents in an overall near extremely fine condition.