Germany, SS. A Model 1933 Dagger, Post-1945 Collector’s Example, by Perfektum

(SS Dolch M1933). An interesting SS Model 1933 Dagger, measuring 37 mm 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. Laser-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “MEINE EHRE HEIßT TREUE” (“MY HONOUR IS LOYALTY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso is marked with a composite maker’s logo featuring the fisherman of the firm of Carl D. Schaaff, Solingen, circumscribed by an inscription of “PERFEKTUM, SOLINGEN”. It sits with the tang exposed within a nickel-plated upper crossguard, marked with eight notches distributed in pairs of four at both the top and bottom. Stamped onto the obverse is a member’s number of “66680” for an unidentified individual. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered black 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 pommel is a silvered and blackened SS insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a nickel-plated lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, secured in place with a rounded pommel nut that maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-plated fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with side rivets. Emanating from the latter is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include minor tarnishing and running marks to the blade, some loosening of the dagger structure, and minor surface oxidation and loss of paint to the scabbard. This interesting postwar collector’s dagger is in a very fine condition.