Germany, SS. A Model 1933 SS Dagger, with Hanger, by Robert Klass

(SS-Dienstdolch). A very well-preserved SS Model 1933 dagger, measuring 370 mm in length when inserted into the scabbard. The dagger features a 220 mm-long nickel-plated magnetic metal blade with a sharpened tip and semi-sharpened edges. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “MEINE EHRE HEIßT TREUE” (“MY HONOUR IS LOYALTY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse of the blade presents plain, with the exception of a maker’s mark near the ricasso of “ROBERT KLAAS, SOLINGEN”, along with the firm’s dual stork logo. It sits securely within the nickel-silver upper crossguard, which presents with eight notches, distributed by groups of four at both the top and bottom. The blackened wooden handle sites flush with the upper crossguard, into which is inset a silvered German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 14 mm (h). Also inset into the handle is a silvered and blackened SS insignia, measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, held in place by a pommel nut, which securely maintains the structural integrity of the dagger. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a blackened magnetic metal shaft. The tip and throat are adorned with nickel-silver fittings, each held in place by side rivets. A functional spring catch in the throat holds the dagger firmly in place during storage. The dagger is also accompanied by a period original hanger. Of multi-piece construction, the hanger consists of a teardrop-shaped brown leather strap with dual magnetic metal rivets accommodating two smaller straps. One strap secures the hanger to the scabbard, while the other bears a functional silvered spring clip for uniform attachment. A final small leather strap is looped through the main body, retaining a functional metal buckle meeting the handle of the dagger. The hanger is unmarked and measures 50 mm (w) x 95 mm (h) (not inclusive of the spring clip). While the dagger and its accessories are very well-preserved, some issues consistent with age and use are evident, including running marks to the blade, scratching and deterioration to the handle grip (which has been repaired with pen or marker), loss of paint and oxidation to the scabbard, the loss of one throat fitting rivet, and material fatigue to the leather elements of the hanger. The dagger is in an overall better than very fine condition.