Germany, NSKK. A Model 1936 Chained Leader’s Dagger, Relic Condition, by Gusav C. Spitzer

(NSKK Kettendolch M36). A refurbished, relic condition National Socialist Motor Corps (Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps/NSKK) Model 1936 chained service dagger, measuring 37 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22 cm-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’s code of “M7/80” for Gustav C. Spitzer, Solingen. It sits within a nickel-plated zink alloy upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. The replacement handle grip is constructed of 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 SA insignia. The dagger completes with a nickel-plated zink alloy lower crossguard which is similarly marked with eight notches, and which is 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. Magnetic metal fixtures are riveted to the tip, mid-section, and throat. The latter two retain integral loops accommodating a multi-link magnetic metal chain, with four of the links bearing raised sunwheel-style mobile swastikas, four bearing raised NSKK insignias, and one bearing a Thurs rune. The links meet at a functional magnetic metal spring clip for uniform suspension. One link is marked on the back with an RZM logo and maker code that appears to read “M5/8” for F.W. Assmann & Söhne, Lüdenscheid. The throat retains a functional spring catch, firmly holding the dagger in place during storage. In addition to the replaced handle the dagger demonstrates extensive issues consistent with age, wear, and improper storage, including oxidation throughout the blade, loss of finish to the nickel-plated fixtures, ill-fitting of the insignia on the handle, and oxidation to the unpainted metal features of the scabbard. This partially-refurbished relic dagger is in a fair condition.