Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, SA-Gruppe Berlin-Brandenburg, by Ernst Pack & Söhne

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33). A Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37 cm 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. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse is maker marked with the classic Siegfried logo of the firm of Ernst Pack & Söhne, Solingen. 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. The reverse of the crossguard is stamped with a letter “B” indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Berlin-Brandenburg (SA Group Berlin-Brandenburg). A single piece of dark brown wood comprises the handle grip, and is 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 logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard which is similarly marked with eight notches and which is secured in place with a rounded pommel nut that maintains the dagger structural integrity. It is accompanied by its original scabbard, constructed of a brown-painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the latter featuring a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. The former is included and consists of a dark brown leather strap which is adjusted with a functional buckle and culminates in a functional nickel-silver spring clip for attachment to the owner’s uniform. The throat also retains a spring clip to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and minor tarnishing to the blade, scratching of the handle and nickel-silver elements, loss of finish to the scabbard, and material fatigue to the leather strap of the hanger. An early dagger in overall very fine condition.