Germany, NSKK. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, by Lauterjung & Sohn

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Dienstdolch M33). A Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps (National Socialist Motor Corps/NSKK) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37 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 “M7/27” for Lauterjung & Sohn, Solingen (Pumawerk). 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. Nickel-silver 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 tarnishing of the blade, crude post-manufacture blackening of the blade’s inscription, some loss of plating to the nickel-fixture elements, and moderate loss of scabbard paint. A late-period example in very fine condition.