Germany, NSKK. A Model 1936 Chained Service Dagger, by Robert Klaas

(NSKK Dolch). A well-preserved National Socialist Motor Corps (Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps/NSKK) Model 1936 chained service dagger, measuring 380 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 220 mm-long polished 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 of “M7/37” for Robert Klaas, Solingen. It sits securely within a nickel-plated alloy upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in pair of four at both the top and bottom. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of dark brown wood, 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 of the pommel is a partially-silvered Sturmabteilung (SA) insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a lower crossguard, similarly constructed of a notched nickel-plated zink alloy, held in place with a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Three magnetic metal fixtures are secured in place at the tip, mid-section, and throat with side rivets. The throat retains a functional spring catch, firmly holding the dagger in place during storage. Emanating from the throat and mid-section are integral loops which retain a multi-piece chain hanger. The former consists of nine silvered bronze links secured together with magnetic metal loops. Four links bear raised sunwheel-style mobile swastika, four bear raised NSKK insignia, and one features a Thurs rune. Both chains culminate in a magnetic metal and nickel-silver hanger, decorated with a central acorn flanked by oak leaves, and retaining a functional metal catch. Two links bear NSKK quartermaster marks on the reverse, while one bears an RZM logo. Minor issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, scratching of the nickel-plated elements, and a small chip to the reverse of the wooden handle grip near the pommel. This late-period dagger is in an overall near extremely fine condition.