Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, Ground-Out Röhm Version to SA-Gruppe Pommern, by Aesculap

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33, Ex-Röhm Ehrendolch). A Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade retaining factory-original sharpening to both the 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 partially-legible maker’s mark of the firm of Aesculap, Tuttingen. Also visible through the reverse are faint traces of period surface grinding consistent with efforts to erase a Röhm dedication, which has partially obscured the maker’s mark (the latter notably in a format only used on Röhm Honour Daggers produced by the firm of Aesculap). 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 is a mark of “P”, indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Pommern. The handle grip consists of a single piece of lacquered dark 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 pommel is a partially-silvered SA logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard which is similarly marked with eight notches, and which retains a rounded pommel nut that maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a brown painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat with dual side rivets. Emanating from the latter is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger, which is included and consists of a brown leather strap, adjusted with a functional magnetic metal buckle, culminating in a functional spring clip. The strap is stamped with a partially-legible Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and code. Issues consistent with age and wear are evidence, and include extensive polishing of the blade which has erased much of the crossgrain outside of the former Röhm dedication, with further running marks and pitting, in addition to some scratching and cracking of the handle grip, loss of paint to the scabbard shaft, and material fatigue of the leather hanger. An interesting example of a ground-out Röhm Honour Dagger reconfigured for general issue in very fine condition.