Germany, NSKK. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, Late-Issue, by Arthur Schüttelhofer

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Dienstdolch M33). A well-preserved National Socialist Motor Corps (NSKK) 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 which retains factory-original sharpening to the edges and tip, and with much of its crossgrain still visible. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script, while the reverse ricasso is marked with a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M7/13” for Arthur Schüttelhofer, Solingen-Wald. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated zink alloy upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. A single piece of lacquered dark brown wood composes 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), while a partially-silvered Sturmabteilung (SA) logo is set into the pommel. The dagger culminates with a nickel-plated zink alloy lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, which retains a rounded pommel nut that maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-plated magnetic metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the latter also featuring a loop for the accommodation of a hanger, with a functional interior catch to firmly hold the dagger in place during storage. Minor issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include faint running marks to the blade, scratching to the nickel plating of the hilt, and some denting of the scabbard tip. This late-issue dagger remains in a near extremely fine condition.