Germany, NSKK. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, Refurbished Example, by Carl Eickhorn

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Dienstdolch M33). An interesting Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps (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 some factory-original sharpening to the edges. 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. The blade sits within a nickel-plated 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 comprises the handle grip, and is carved into a curvature for a comfortable grip. Nailed to the obverse of the handle in place of the original eagle insignia is an aluminum Ordnungspolizei logo measuring 20 mm (w) x 20 mm (h). Inset into the obverse of the pommel is a partially-silvered Sturmabteilung (SA) logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a nickel-plated alloy lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, which retains a rounded pommel nut which securely maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is a period scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Plated magnetic metal fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the latter retaining a loop for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional spring catch situated within the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age, wear, and refurbishment are evident, and include some blunting of the blade’s tip with running marks and tarnishing throughout, multiple large chips to the handle adjacent to both crossguards, additional chipping of the handle beneath the replacement insignia, loss of scabbard paint, and loss of nickel to the plated fixtures. This unusual example remains in a fair condition.