Germany, SS. A Model 1933 SS Chained Dagger, RZM 285/38

(SS-Dienstdolch). A mid-period Model 1933 SS Dagger, measuring 370 mm in length when inserted into the scabbard. The dagger features a 220 mm-long 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 ricasso bears an acid-etched Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo, a maker’s code of “285/38” (an unidentified manufacturer), and double Sig runes. The blade sits securely within a nickel-silver upper crossguard, bearing eight etched notches, with four distributed at both the top and bottom. The handle grip is composed of a piece of black-painted wood, the obverse of which is inset with dual insignia. The latter includes a German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h) and constructed of non-ferrous metal, as well as a silvered and enameled SS insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notched, secured in place by a magnetic metal pommel nut.

The dagger is accompanied by a mismatched scabbard retrieved from a Model 1936 SS Chained Dagger, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. It features three silvered non-ferrous metal fittings, with one each at the tip, mid-section, and throat. The latter two feature integrated loops connecting to a chain completing in a functional spring catch hanger. The chain itself consists of six links, three of which bear raised double Sig runes and three of which feature raised Totenkopf insignia. It is connected to the hanger by a stylized knotted swastika. In addition to the replacement scabbard (which presents difficulty with insertion and extraction), the dagger demonstrates issues consisting with age and use, including running marks and oxidation of the blade and nickel-silver elements, scratching and loss of finish to the handle, and oxidation and loss of paint to the scabbard. This mis-matched example is in an overall very fine condition.