*German, WW2, Third Reich, Early Model 1933 SA Honour Dagger (Sturmabteilung Dienstdolch), “Ns” Gau Marked, by Carl Schmidt Sohn A.-G., Solingen – with Assmann DRGM Hanger & Case*
A superb and highly desirable early-production Model 1933 SA Dienstdolch by Carl Schmidt Sohn A.-G., Solingen, retaining its sharply struck Niedersachsen (“Ns”) Gruppenstempel, solid nickel fittings, brown anodised scabbard, early maker mark, and complete with original Assmann DRGM hanger and presentation case — a classic pre-RZM example.
The blade measures 22.2 cm (34.4 cm overall) and presents exceptionally well. The acid-etched motto “Alles für Deutschland” remains deep, dark and beautifully defined, with excellent clarity throughout the Gothic script. The reverse ricasso carries the crisp circular “church” trademark of Carl Schmidt Sohn A.-G., Solingen — clear and untouched. The blade retains strong original cross-grain with only light age-related surface marks. The tip remains sharp and true.
The crossguards are solid early nickel-silver, exhibiting an attractive, untouched patina. Most importantly, the reverse of the lower crossguard is clearly stamped “Ns”, confirming issue to SA-Gruppe Niedersachsen (Lower Saxony). Early Gau stamps such as this were applied prior to full Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) standardisation and are a key indicator of early manufacture and regional distribution.
The hardwood grip retains a rich reddish-brown tone with excellent contour. The nickel SA eagle is sharply detailed, and the enamel SA roundel remains clean and well set. The tang nut shows natural ageing and remains consistent with period assembly.
The scabbard is the desirable early brown anodised type over a sheet-steel body with nickel mounts. The anodising remains clearly visible with honest age-related wear and scattered oxidation spotting consistent with period use. The nickel fittings display natural toning and patina, enhancing the overall early character of the piece. All fittings remain secure and well aligned.
Accompanying the dagger is its early two-piece brown leather hanger with nickel fittings, clearly stamped with the Assmann “A” logo and DRGM. The leather shows natural ageing, creasing and darkening, but remains structurally sound and entirely correct for the period.
The dagger is housed in a fitted presentation case, completing a highly displayable and cohesive set.
Approx. Measurements – Blade length: 22.2 cm. Overall length: 34.4 cm.
Historical Context:
The Model 1933 SA Dienstdolch was introduced as the standard service dagger of the Sturmabteilung (SA), the Nazi Party’s original paramilitary formation founded in 1921. While not a battlefield weapon, the dagger served as a symbol of loyalty, ideological commitment, and organisational identity. Early examples (1933–1934/35) were produced with superior materials — solid nickel fittings, hardwood grips and brown anodised scabbards — before later wartime economies introduced plated zinc fittings and painted finishes. Prior to full RZM centralisation, early daggers were stamped with regional SA group codes on the reverse of the lower crossguard. The “Ns” stamp denotes SA-Gruppe Niedersachsen. These Gau stamps ceased once the Reichszeugmeisterei system standardised production and licensing, making early stamped examples very desirable. Following the events of June 1934 (“Night of the Long Knives”), the SA’s political influence diminished dramatically, and dagger production evolved accordingly. As such, early nickel-fitted Gau-marked daggers represent the formative and most historically significant production period.
Founded in 1829, Carl Schmidt Sohn registered its distinctive “church” trademark in 1895 (renewed 1921). The firm initially specialised in high-quality cutlery and edged tools before expanding into political and paramilitary edged weapons during the Third Reich era. The company was located at Düsseldorfer Straße 28 (renamed Kronprinzenstraße in 1939) and received its RZM licence (M7/84) on 4 June 1938. The firm remains in operation today as a respected manufacturer of professional kitchen cutlery.
The accompanying hanger is stamped “A” (Assmann) and DRGM. F. W. Assmann & Söhne, was one of the most significant German uniform and accoutrement manufacturers of the 19th and 20th centuries. Founded in 1826 by Friedrich Wilhelm Assmann, the firm became a major supplier of military buttons, buckles and insignia. Leadership passed to Eugen Assmann after the founder’s death, and later to Rudolf Assmann (d. 1940). During the Third Reich period, Assmann was one of the principal producers of belt buckles, fittings and uniform hardware. D.R.G.M. (Deutsches Reichsgebrauchsmuster) was a German design protection registration system in use from 1891 to 1952. Unlike a full patent, DRGM conferred registered design protection across the German states, typically for three years. Its presence here confirms period manufacture and commercial registration. The Assmann marking significantly enhances the desirability of the complete set.
*Condition*
An extremely attractive early example. Blade retains strong original finish with deep, crisp motto and sharp maker mark. Minor age spotting consistent with period storage. Tip intact and true. Nickel crossguards show honest patina with clear “Ns” stamp. Grip solid and well toned with tight eagle and roundel. Scabbard retains visible original anodising with age-related wear and oxidation spotting. Nickel fittings toned but secure. Assmann DRGM hanger complete; leather shows age and creasing but remains sound. Presentation case present. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMHEOXABEO_9842229960
