Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Sturmabteilung Group Hochland Dagger, by Carl Eickhorn

(Sturmabteilung Dolch). A well-preserved Model 1933 Sturmabteilung (SA) dagger, measuring 375 mm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 225 mm-long 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 also bears a maker’s mark of “CARL EICKHORN, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic squirrel logo. It sits firmly within a nickel-plated upper crossguard, itself marked with eight notches, with four at both the top and bottom. Stamped onto the reverse is an inscription of “HO”, indicating distribution to SA Group Hochland. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of polished dark brown wood, with the obverse inset with an insignia consisting of 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 handle near the pommel is a silvered and painted circular SA insignia, measuring 9 mm in diameter. Completing the dagger is a nickel-plated lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, held in place by a rounded pommel nut which securely maintain’s the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft with silver plated fittings secured to both the tip and throat with side rivets. Emanating from the latter is a loop for the accommodation of a dagger hanger, with the fixture also retaining a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include oxidation and running marks to the blade, some scratching of the wooden handle, and minor loss of finish to the nickel- and silver-plated features. The dagger is in an overall very fine condition.