Germany, NSKK. A Model 1936 Chained Service Dagger, Transitional Example, by Carl Eickhorn

(Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps Kettendolch M36). A well-preserved Nationalsozialistisches Kraftfahrkorps (National Socialist Motor Corps/NSKK) Chained Service Dagger, measuring 36.5 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 tip and edges. Acid-etched onto the obverse is an inscription of “ALLES FÜR DEUTSCHLAND” (“EVERYTHING FOR GERMANY”) in Fraktur script. The reverse ricasso features a transitional maker’s mark, consisting of the classic logo of the firm of Carl Eickhorn, Solingen, topped by a Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) logo and maker code “M7/66” for the same manufacturer. The blade sits securely 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 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). Also inset into the pommel is a partially-silvered Sturmabteilung (SA) logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. It is completed with a nickel-plated lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, retaining a rounded pommel nut which maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a black painted magnetic metal shaft. Plated steel fixtures are secured to the tip, mid-section, and throat. Two integral loops set into the latter accommodate a multi-link steel chain, with three links bearing sunwheel-style mobile swastikas, three bearing NSKK insignias, and one bearing a Thurs rune. The chains culminate in the centre with a functional spring clip decorated with a shield bearing raised oak leaves. Stamped onto the reverse of one link is an RZM logo and maker code of “M5/8”, indicating production by F.W. Assmann & Söhne, Lüdenscheid, while another link bears an NSKK acceptance mark. 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 running marks throughout the blade, minor scratching of the handle grip and crossguards, and some oxidation of the scabbard throat fixture rivets. This transitional example remains in a better than very fine condition.