Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Sturmabteilung Dagger, by Edward Wüsthoff

(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 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 an acid-etched maker’s mark reading “ED. WÜSTHOFF, SOLINGE”), circumscribing the firm’s trident logo. The blade sits firmly within a nickel-plated upper crossguard, itself marked with eight notches, with four distributed at both the top and bottom. It is stamped with an illegible SA Group mark and a serial mark of “1663”. A single piece of polished dark wood composes the handle grip, contoured into a smooth curve for a comfortable grip. Inset into the obverse of the handle is a silvered SA-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 25 mm (w) x 15 mm (h). Also inset into the pommel is a partially silvered SA insignia, measuring 9 mm in diameter. Completing the dagger is a nickel-plated lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches. A number “1” is stamped onto the reverse. Riveted to the lower crossguard is a rounded pommel nut, which securely maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. It is accompanied by its period original scabbard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft. A replacement magnetic metal fixture is secured to the tip with one of two rivets, while an additional nickel-plated fixture is riveted to the throat with dual side rivets. It retains a functional spring catch, securely holding the dagger in place during storage. Emanating from the throat fixture is an integral loop for the accommodation of a dagger hanger. In addition to the replaced scabbard fixture, some issues consistent with age and use are evident, and include running marks and oxidation to the blade, oxidation of the nickel-plated features, and loss of finish to the scabbard. Additionally, friction renders scabbard insertion and extraction difficult. The dagger is in an overall better than very fine condition.