Original German Pre-WWII M36 SS Type A Chained DaggerThis is an outstanding and highly desirable example of the Model 1936 SS Chained Officer’s Dagger (M36 Kettendolch für Offiziere), officially introduced on August 25, 1936 under the authority of Heinrich Himmler. This pattern was authorized for wear by SS officers meeting the established service requirements, making it one of the most iconic and sought-after edged weapons of the period.
Blade:
The blade is in excellent condition, exhibiting a bright, clean surface with strong, well-defined crossgrain visible from the hilt to the tip. The acid-etched motto, “Meine Ehre heißt Treue,” is deeply and crisply executed, remaining fully legible. The tip is perfect, and the blade maintains proper fit within the scabbard. As expected for this model, the blade is unmarked.
Grip & Fittings:
The black hardwood grip shows a rich, dark tone with attractive natural grain. It remains in excellent condition overall, with only a very small flake to the obverse lower area noted. The grip-to-crossguard fit is tight and correct. The solid nickel-silver eagle is sharply detailed, and the SS roundel retains excellent enamel with a perfect, flush fit. The nickel-silver crossguards display a pleasing, even patina and match the scabbard fittings and chain beautifully. The pommel nut remains intact.
Scabbard:
The original scabbard retains approximately 98%+ of its black painted finish, with only minor handling marks and small paint loss in isolated areas. The solid nickel-silver fittings are in excellent condition, showing light age and patina. The lower fitting and the ball tip are in excellent condition. All five screws remain present and intact and appear to be untouched. The scabbard-to-crossguard fit is excellent.
Chain Hanger:
The dagger is complete with its highly desirable early Type A chain, identifiable by the skull links featuring the distinctive nasal septum detail. The links are constructed of solid nickel-silver with darkened backgrounds, showing a beautiful, untouched patina and crisp detail throughout the skulls and SS runes. The reverse of the first lower link is clearly SS proof marked. The Wotan’s Knot (closed type) clip is intact and fully functional. All links are present and structurally sound.
Condition:
Overall, this dagger rates as excellent to near excellent-plus condition. The blade is exceptionally well preserved, the scabbard retains the vast majority of its original finish, and the chain remains complete with outstanding detail and patina. Minor imperfections are limited to light handling wear and a small grip flake are all consistent with honest age. The piece displays superb eye appeal and remains a highly collectible, investment-grade example.
Certain swas. symbols have been censored. If you would like additional photos, feel free to email us at [email protected], call or text us at (856) 294-9310.
We are not affiliated with/or embrace the philosophies of any radical, political, or racist organizations. Items sold at 1944 Militaria are for historical purposes only.
