Aesculap, Tuttlingen

Aesculap Tuttlingen: Manufacturer from Tuttlingen (Baden-Württemberg)

The Aesculap steel goods factory was founded in 1867 in Tuttlingen. The company began as a workshop for surgical instruments and developed into a major producer. During the National Socialist era, Aesculap expanded its output temporarily to include edged weapons, especially SA service daggers. The Tuttlingen location is therefore considered one of the documented production sites for SA daggers in Baden-Württemberg.

Regarding SA service daggers (Sturmabteilung), collectors often cite an estimated figure of around 13,000 pieces. With a rarity rating of approx. 1.5/5, Aesculap examples are considered comparatively common; however, pieces in excellent, untouched condition with consistent patina remain highly desirable. The motto “Alles für Deutschland” is typical; early examples may feature high-quality nickel or nickel-silver fittings.

The Aesculap logo shows a snake winding around a staff, topped by a crown. A ring inscription with “AESCULAP TUTTLINGEN” is often present. This motif reflects the company’s medical origins and typically appears as a dark grey blade etch.

Aesculap Tuttlingen – Manufacturer Profile & Historical Relevance

The Aesculap steelware factory, founded in 1867 in Tuttlingen, developed from a small workshop for surgical instruments into an internationally recognised manufacturer of medical technology. During the 1930s, the Aesculap Tuttlingen company briefly expanded its output and also produced edged weapons, particularly early SA service daggers.

Historical Background & Production During the NS Period

During the National Socialist era, Aesculap manufactured a notable number of SA daggers. Collector literature and observations commonly cite an estimated production of around 13,000 SA daggers. These pieces typically feature the motto “Alles für Deutschland” (“All for Germany”) and show early-period construction details, including high-quality nickel or nickel-silver fittings.

With a rarity level of 1.5/5, Aesculap daggers are considered relatively common overall. However, early, untouched examples with original patina remain highly sought after by advanced collectors.

Identifying Features of an Aesculap SA Dagger

• Acid-etched logo with snake and staff
• Three-part crown above the staff
• Double-ring inscription: AESCULAP TUTTLINGEN
• Dark grey to deep black blade etching, often on the reverse
• Early production with nickel / nickel-silver fittings
• High-quality grip and overall workmanship

Early Aesculap SA Daggers & the Rare Röhm Variant

Aesculap produced both regular SA service daggers and a small number of examples with an Ernst Röhm dedication. These Röhm variants — including partially ground examples — are among the rarest Tuttlingen-made pieces and are highly collectible due to their historical context and distinctive blade etching.

Logo, Blade Marks & Position Within Tuttlingen Industry

The Aesculap logo is among the most distinctive maker marks from Tuttlingen. The snake-and-staff motif, topped by a crown, is rooted in medical symbolism. The inscription “AESCULAP TUTTLINGEN” clearly indicates origin and is an important authentication feature for collectors.

Tuttlingen was a major centre for surgical instrument manufacturing in the early 20th century. Only a handful of local companies produced military edged weapons for a limited time. Aesculap holds a special position among Tuttlingen blade manufacturers because its military production appears to have been confined to a comparatively short period.

Collector Value & Market Interest Today

The value of an Aesculap SA dagger depends largely on originality and condition. Particularly desirable are:

• Complete and crisp blade etching
• Early nickel / nickel-silver fittings
• Untouched original patina
• Correct period scabbards

Aesculap SA daggers form an attractive collecting field with well-documented characteristics and steady demand among specialists.

DG.DE – Purchasing Aesculap Daggers

DG.DE is actively purchasing original edged weapons made by Aesculap Tuttlingen, including SA daggers, bayonets, blade variations, and rare Röhm pieces. Please send us photos for a free preliminary evaluation.

More information about our purchasing service: Militaria Purchase (We Buy)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Aesculap