German SS Dagger - An SS dagger meant to be worn by all ranks of the SS was introduced in 1933. This dagger was very similar to the SA style. The construction of the SS dagger consisted of black ebony handles with an SS symbol insert located just below the pommel. In addition, a small eagle holding a swastika is placed on the center of the handle. The fittings are manufactured from plated zinc metal. The dagger was usually a special purchase item. Initially, production of the dagger was not under RZM control. It was not until 1934 that the RZM started overseeing production of the dagger. The SS dagger is one of the most desirable daggers to obtain by a collector. It is also a difficult one to find. There are many replicas flooding the market so the buyer must be very careful when purchasing one.

The design of the dagger was simple and elegant. The handle was of black wood with a smooth finish. One side has an eagle encrusted in it. The head of the eagle faces right and has the wings fully extended. The claws are clutching a wreath with a swastika in the center. A circle with the SS runnes is encrusted above the eagle. The scabbard is painted black to match the handle. It has two fittings. one in the throat area, the other in the tip. The throat fitting has a ring attached to it. This is where the leather dagger hanger is secured.

This is an identification guide for the SS German dagger. As used during World War Two. Several photos and descriptions are shown for the purpose of educating the visitor about this intersting collectible. A price guide is included to illustrate the value of the daggers in the collector's market. This information is brought to you courtesy of MilitaryItems.com , the source for military antiques and collectibles in the internet. We have a large on-line store with over 3,000 items for sale. WANT TO LEARN MORE? FAQ's Dagger and sword anatomy Edge weapon RZM numbers German Dagger hangers Edge weapon maker markings Hilt markings German edge weapon materials Perspective view Purchasing a dagger

The base of the blade is marked with the RZM logo. Also the inscription 534/38/SS is placed just below the logo. The opposite side of the blade bears the motto "Meime Thre Heibt Treue". The leather hanger is of black color. It has a wire type buckle that controls its length. A clip is placed on the end. There are no markings found in this hanger. Not all hangers were marked. There is a version of the SS dagger that uses a metal chain for a hanger. This model is known as the chained SS dagger.

This edge weapon is currently being reproduced. It is becoming more difficult to be able to tell the fake ones from the real ones because the quality of the reproductions is improving. The collector must become familiarized with the construction style and materials employed in the manufacturing of edge weapons. Attention to the details is critical in order to be able to determine the authenticity of the item.