Germany, SA. A Rare Model 1933 Service Dagger, SA-Gruppe Hansa, by Gustav Häker

(Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch M33). A rare and untouched Sturmabteilung (SA) Model 1933 Service Dagger, measuring 37 cm in total length when inserted into the scabbard. It features a 22.5 cm-long, nickel-plated, magnetic steel blade with tip and edges retaining unblemished factory-original sharpening. 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 “GUST. HÄKER, SOLINGEN” for the firm of Gustav Häker, topped by the company’s miner logo. It 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 “HA”, indicating distribution to SA-Gruppe Hansa (Hamburg, Mecklenburg, and surrounding area). The handle grip is composed of a piece of lacquered dark 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 obverse pommel is a partially-silvered SA logo measuring 9 mm in diameter. The dagger completes with a nickel-silver lower crossguard, similarly marked with eight notches, which is secured in place with a rounded pommel nut that maintains the dagger’s structural integrity. Accompanying the dagger is its original scabbard, constructed of a brown painted magnetic metal shaft. Nickel-silver fixtures are secured to both the tip and throat, with the latter retaining an integral loop for the accommodation of a hanger. A functional spring catch within the throat firmly holds the dagger in place during storage. Issues consistent with age and wear are evident, and include moderate tarnishing and running marks to the blade, chips to both the obverse and reverse of the handle along the seam of the upper crossguard, and moderate loss of paint throughout the scabbard resulting in some surface oxidation. Demonstrating no evidence of any cleaning or modification, this superb dagger produced by a rare and desirable manufacturer remains in a better than very fine condition.