Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, Factory-Erased Röhm Version, by Carl Eickhorn

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33, Ex-Röhm Ehrendolch). A well-preserved Sturmabteilung (SA) 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 which retains factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “CARL EICKHORN, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s classic squirrel logo. Notably, the reverse demonstrates the unmistakable signs of factory erasure of a Röhm dedication, executed expertly to result in only minimal disruption of the blade’s cross grain and with some intrusion onto the maker’s mark. 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 “NS”, indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony). 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 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 insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. It culminates in a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, which retains a rounded pommel nut that maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is an original scabbard, constructed of a brown painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-plated magnetic metal fixtures are secured to the tip and throat with side rivets, with a ring emanating from the latter for the accommodation of a hanger. The former is included, and consists of a brown leather strap, adjusted with a buckle, connecting to a functional magnetic metal spring clip retaining a brown leather loop. A functional spring catch situated within the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks to the blade, fatigue of the handle grip finish, fatigue of the leather hanger straps, and replacement of the scabbard with a later-issue example. This fine-quality former Röhm Honour Dagger remains in a better than very fine condition.