Transitional SS Dagger – RZM 15/39 Henckels

Product Description:  This Transitional SS Dagger is a very nice example of this rare and sought- after type. These daggers, with blades featuring the RZM code as well as the maker’s logo, are referred to by collectors as transitional pieces. The blade on this one is exceptional, and in near mint condition. It’s full length, with excellent cross-graining along the entire length, and only very light runner marks from being in and out of the scabbard. The motto is crisply etched, and the blade is well-marked on the reverse ricasso with the maker emblem of Henckels as well as the round “RZM” logo of the Reichszeugmeisterei and the code 15/39 indicating production by Henckels in 1939. The beautiful handle of this dagger shows slight wear. The black ebony grip is intact, with some small marks and also a small amount of chipping along where the lower crossguard meets the grip. The grip is inlaid with a nicely enameled SS roundel and bright aluminum eagle. The plated crossguards remain bright, with only very light patina. This desirable Transitional SS Dagger is complete with its original scabbard. The scabbard is extremely nice, with only a few very small flakes to the factory applied glossy black enamel paint finish, and is otherwise near mint. The plated metal fittings remain bright, with only light patina that perfectly matches the guards on the handle. The scabbard screws are intact and appear to be completely untouched. The scabbard shows no dents, and the lower drag has no damage. This dagger has a lot going for it, and is in outstanding, excellent plus plus condition.

Historical Description:  The Model 1933 (M33) SS dagger was first serviceable dagger produced for the SS. The design was derived from a 16^thcentury 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 9^th, 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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