Germany, SS. A Rare Model 1933 Service Dagger, Numbered Issue, by Heinrich Böker & Co.

(SS Dolch). A rare Model 1933 SS dagger, measuring 37 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22.5 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 “MEINE EHRE HEIßT TREUE” (“MY HONOUR IS LOYALTY”) in Fraktur script. Stamped onto the reverse ricasso is a maker’s mark of “BÖKER, SOLINGEN”, topped by the firm’s ornately-framed tree logo. The blade sits securely within a nickel-silver upper crossguard marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. Stamped onto the reverse of the crossguard is a membership number of “129850” for an unconfirmed recipient. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered and blackened 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 2.5 cm (w) x 1.5 cm (h). Also inset into the obverse ricasso is a partially silvered SS insignia measuring 1 cm in diameter. 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 matching scabbard, constructed of a black-painted magnetic metal shaft with nickel-silver fittings riveted in place at both the tip and throat. The latter features an integral loop for suspension from a hanger and retains a functional spring catch, firmly holding the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, minor chipping of the handle grip, and moderate oxidation and loss of paint to the scabbard. This scarce dagger by a desirable manufacturer is in an overall near extremely fine condition.