Germany, SS. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, with Chained Leader’s Scabbard, by Carl Eickhorn

(Schutzstaffel Dienstdolch M33, mit Stahlscheide M36). A well-preserved SS Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with both its edges and tip slightly sharpened. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “MEINE EHRE HEIßT TREUE” (“MY HONOUR IS LOYALTY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “CARL EICKHORN, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic squirrel logo. It sits firmly 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 Roman numeral “I” district code. A single piece of blackened 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 14 mm (h). Also inset into the obverse of the ricasso is a blackened and silvered SS insignia, measuring 9 mm in diameter. A nickel-silver lower crossguard completes the dagger, is similarly marked with eight notches, and is secured in place with a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. The interior of both the upper and lower crossguards bear codes of “HE”, which is documented as being associated with Eickhorn products (possibly standing for “Haus Eickhorn”). It is accompanied by a mis-matched scabbard issued for a 1936 Chained Dagger, constructed of a black anodized magnetic metal shaft. Magnetic metal fixtures are secured to the tip, mid-section, and throat, with the mid-section bearing a raised swastika design around the outer circumference. Two integral loops emanate from the mid-section and throat to accommodate magnetic metal multi-link chains, with three bearing raised double Sig runes and three bearing raised Totenkopfs. The links culminate in a knotted hanger with a functional spring clip and leather loop for uniform suspension. The reverse of one link bears a clear SS Kulturzeichen. A functional spring clip within the throat securely holds the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, scratching of the handle (particularly around the eagle), and minor loss of scabbard colour and fixture plating. A mis-matched set in overall better than very fine condition.