Germany, SA. A Model 1933 Service Dagger, SA-Gruppe Pommern, by Gustav Wirth

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33). A well-preserved Sturmabteilung (SA) 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. 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 “GUSTAV WIRTH, SOLINGEN-GRAFRATH”, circumscribing the firm’s classic monogram logo. The blade sits securely within a nickel-plated upper crossguard which is marked with eight notches, distributed in groups of four at both the top and bottom. Stamped onto the reverse is a letter “P”, indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Pommern (Pomerania). The handle grip is composed of a single piece of lacquered dark brown wood, 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 the pommel is inset with a partially-silvered SA insignia measuring 9 mm in diameter. It culminates in a nickel-plated lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, which retains a rounded pommel nut to maintain the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, consisting of a brown painted magnetic metal shaft with nickel-plated magnetic metal fixtures secured to both the tip and throat. A loop emanating from the latter retains a hanger which consists of a brown leather strap connecting to a functional magnetic metal spring clip, itself maker marked with the logo of Overhoff & Cie, Lüdenscheid, along with a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and the firm’s code. A functional spring catch situated within the scabbard throat holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include running marks and tarnishing to the blade, with additional evidence of polishing which has obscured much of the cross grain, with further wear of finish to the handle grip, scratching of the nickel plating, and some fatigue to the leather hanger. This pre-RZM example remains in an overall very fine condition.