Early SS Dagger by Rich. Abr. Herder

German WWII > Edged Weapons > SS Daggers > Early SS Daggers

Model 1933 - Schutzstaffel Dienstdolch by Richard Abr. Herder of Solingen. The blade on this one looks good. The acid etched “Meine Ehre Heißt Treue” motto and “Richard Abr. Herder Solingen” maker mark are both nicely executed. The crossgrain looks excellent and is easily visible as you shine it in the light. The blade is nicely seated up against the hilt and the tip comes to a perfect point. The blade rates Exc+. It shows evidence of being sharpened, heavy age grey/spotting throughout, minor pitting marks to the obverse edge and typical surface scratches. The steel based black anodized scabbard looks good. The body shows oxidization spotting throughout. It continues to remain completely dent free. The nickel-silver scabbard fittings look great with wonderful smokers’ patina that is matching throughout. All four scabbard screws remain intact. The ball has a wee bruise yet retains a nice round profile. The nickel-silver crossguards look excellent as well matching the scabbard fitting’s patina perfectly. The reverse of the lower crossguard is stamp “II” (Dresden) – the rarest district stamp. The grip is black died hardwood. It has a bumps and bruises along with the slightest flake chips to the edges. The solid nickel-silver eagle is wonderfully detailed and has a perfect fit. The SS roundel retains 60% of its enamel and has a perfect fit. This one came with an early SS vertical hanger that is marked: “SS 1/35 RZM”. The Assmann / D.R.G.M. marked clip continues to work well and matches the fitting’s patina. The top strap was in two pieces when I got it. I repaired it and treated all the leather. Based on the scabbard’s age you can tell that the vertical hanger worn on this backwards and it has been with it forever. This piece came from the son of the veteran who brought it back. It has never been in a collection.