Germany, SA. An Extremely Rare Model 1933 Dagger, SA-Gruppe Franken, by Josef Munch

(Sturmabteilung Dolch). A rare and well-preserved Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 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 maker ricasso is marked “JOSEF MUNCH, BROTTERODE”, indicating production by a seldom-encountered maker. The blade sits securely within a nickel-silver upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. Stamped onto the reverse of the crossguard are initials “FR.”, indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Franken (SA Group Franconia). The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered dark brown wood, carved into a curvature for a comfortable grip. Inset into the handle is a silvered German national eagle measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h), while a partially-silvered SA insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter is inset into the pommel. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, secured in place with a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fixtures are riveted in place at the tip and throat, with the throat also retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. The latter is included, and consists of a brown leather strap adjusted with a functional buckle and culminating with a spring clip for uniform suspension. The throat retains a spring catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some tarnishing and running marks to the blade, scratching of the handle grip, and loss of paint to the scabbard shaft. This dagger by an exceptionally rare and desirable manufacturer is in a near extremely fine condition.