Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, SA-Gruppe Niederrhein with NSKK Scabbard, by E. & F. Hörster

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33). A Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37.5 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade retaining factory-original sharpening to both the edges and tip. Acid-etched onto the obverse of the blade is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso bears a maker’s mark of “E. & F. HÖRSTER, SOLINGEN”, circumscribing the firm’s monogram logo. 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 an inscription of “NRH”, indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Niederrhein. The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered brown wood which 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 pommel is a partially-silvered SA insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. It completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, retaining a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is a mis-matched scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fittings are riveted to both the tip and throat. Emanating from the latter is an integral ring retaining a matching period hanger, consisting of two blackened leather straps joined by a functional metal spring clip. The former is marked with a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M5/25” for Christian Theodor Dicke, Lüdenscheid. A functional catch situated within the throat holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include some running marks and sporadic loss of nickel plating to the blade, scratching of the scabbard fixtures, and fatigue of the leather hanger straps. A mis-matched but period set in an overall better than very fine condition.