Maker
Hammesfahr Gottlieb, Solingen
Model
1933-1935 [Early Model]
Inscription
Meine Ehre heißt Treue «My honor is loyalty»
Blade
double-edged
Length
380 mm
Weight
455 g
Condition
EXC+
Note
"III" [Berlin]
SS Dagger [Early Model] by Gottlieb Hammesfahr Solingen
Early SS service dagger from the production period 1933–1935, manufactured by Gottlieb Hammesfahr, Solingen-Foche. This is a classic early pattern with nickel silver fittings and the Roman numeral “III” stamped on the lower crossguard, attributed to the Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) Berlin. The overall length is approx. 38.0 cm.
Grip: Black wooden grip in the typical early configuration. Inlaid are the SS runes and the national eagle in nickel-type finish, both period-correct and crimped/clamped from the inside. The crossguards are made of nickel silver. The lower crossguard is clearly marked with the Roman numeral “III” on the reverse.
Blade: Sharpened blade with a well-defined surface. The front side bears the SS motto “Meine Ehre heißt Treue” in a deep, angular etch. The reverse shows the maker’s mark “Gottlieb Hammesfahr Solingen-Foche”.
Scabbard: Steel scabbard with black lacquer finish. The scabbard fittings are made of nickel silver and are secured on each side with two screws. The upper fitting features the suspension ring for the hanger. The ball finial on the chape is not dented.
Historical Context: Early SS Service Dagger 1933–1935
The SS service dagger was introduced from 1933 onward as an honorary and tradition weapon of the Schutzstaffel (SS). Early examples are often characterized by higher-grade materials such as nickel silver fittings and carefully executed blades.
Regional markings in the form of Roman numerals on the lower crossguard served as an organizational allocation within the SS structure. The “III” marking is commonly linked in the literature to the Reichszeugmeisterei (RZM) Berlin.
Makers such as Gottlieb Hammesfahr were among the recognized Solingen producers of SS daggers. Well-preserved early pieces with original fittings and a clearly legible motto are considered sought-after collector’s items within the field of historic edged weapons.
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