Condition: Excellent++
Pattern: M36
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Product Description: This is an exceptional and highly desirable example of the iconic M36 SS Chained Dagger—an outstanding specimen that will immediately stand out in any advanced collection. The dagger is in excellent++ condition overall, exhibiting both historical integrity and impressive aesthetic appeal.
The blade is simply superb, retaining deep, crisp crossgraining that remains clearly visible from the ricasso to the tip. It has only the typical surface runner marks from being sheathed and unsheathed, and is easily rated Near Mint. The tip terminates in a flawless point, and the deeply acid-etched Meine Ehre heißt Treue motto is sharply executed with full frosting present. There is no maker mark, precisely as expected for M36 daggers issued in this configuration. The blade fits snugly and securely into the scabbard, showing no play.
The ebony grip remains remarkably well preserved, with absolutely no chipping or material loss—an uncommon and desirable trait in SS daggers. The enameled SS roundel is completely intact with a glossy finish, and the grip eagle is sharply detailed with excellent silvering. The upper and lower crossguards are clean, showing uniform toning that perfectly matches the scabbard fittings, and they exhibit no damage or repairs.
The scabbard is textbook steel-based with its original black anodized finish, showing an excellent overall surface with no dents or structural flaws. Approximately 95% of the original factory lacquer remains intact, giving the piece a rich, deep luster. There is some minor surface corrosion to the front panel—left completely untouched to preserve originality and allowing the new owner to clean or conserve at their discretion. All five dome-head screws are intact and unturned, and the scabbard fits tightly to the dagger, closing with a satisfying snap.
The attached type C suspension chain is a highlight in itself—complete, functional, and exceptionally well-detailed. The links retain strong definition, particularly in the Totenkopf skulls and SS runes, which show virtually no wear. The reverse of the second upper link is correctly stamped with the SS RZM proof mark, and the center of the Wotan’s Knot bears the deeply impressed “DRGM” designation. The spring clip remains strong and functional, locking securely as intended.
Altogether, this M36 SS Chained Dagger exemplifies the quality and mystique that define the best Third Reich edged weapons. Its condition, combined with outstanding crossgraining, a flawless grip, and a beautifully preserved chain assembly, make it a premier piece for the serious collector—offered here with exceptional eye appeal and integrity throughout.
Historical Description: The Model 1933 (M33) SS dagger was first serviceable dagger produced for the SS. The design was derived from a 16th century Swiss hunting dagger called the “Holbein”. The M33 SS Dagger was worn by all ranks within the SS. Becoming a member of the SS was held in high respect during the Third Reich, and their daggers became a symbolic piece within its ranks. Every year on November 9th, the new SS men would pledge their full allegiance to the Führer (Adolf Hitler) in front of the Feldherrnhalle monument in Munich and receive their dagger as a symbol of that oath. The inscription on the blade “Mein Ehre Heißt Treue”, which translates to “My Honor is Loyalty”, was the motto of the SS.
Manufacturing for these daggers began late in 1933, and continued until 1942 when production of all daggers ceased to conserve materials and labor for the war effort. Today, collectors categorize these daggers into three main categories; Early, Transitional, and Late period. SS daggers produced from 1933 to early 1935 are early and have anodized scabbards, nickle fittings, and are generally of a higher workmanship. Transitional period daggers were produced from 1935 to 1938, are usually found with painted scabbards, plated fittings and RZM codes with their makers logo on the blade. Late period daggers were produced from 1938 to 1942 and are similar to the transitional period daggers in that they use plated fittings, painted scabbards but will only be found with the RZM logo and code on the blade.
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