Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, by Carl Eickhorn, c. 1940

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33). A Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 36.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22.5 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 “M7/66” for Carl Eickhorn, Solingen. 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 SA insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a plated nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, secured in place with a rounded pommel nut which securely maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a brown painted magnetic metal shaft. Plated magnetic metal 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. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, including running marks to the blade, loss of scabbard paint with consequent surface oxidation, additional loss of plating to the tip fixture with resulting oxidation, and friction which renders insertion and extraction of the dagger from the scabbard difficult. A late-period example in very fine condition.