Germany, NSKK. A Rare Gruppe Mitte Model 1933 Service Dagger, by J.P. Sauer & Sohn

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Dienstdolch M33). A rare Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps (National Socialist Motor Corps/NSKK) Model 1933 Service Dagger measuring 37.5 in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with both tip and edges sharpened, retaining much of its original crossgrain. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blase is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “J.P. SAUER & SOHN, SUHL”, circumscribing the firm’s classic “wild man” logo. It 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 ricasso is a mark of “MI”, indicating distribution to NSKK Gruppe Mitte. The handle grip is composed 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 obverse 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, retaining a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft with polished nickel-silver fixtures secured to both the tip and throat. Emanating from the latter is a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional spring catch within the throat holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and includes running marks and tarnishing to the blade, minor surface oxidation to the nickel-silver elements, a small chip to the wood of the obverse pommel, and moderate loss of paint to the scabbard shaft resulting in some surface oxidation. This scarce and early example remains in an overall very fine condition.