The first official cold weapon of the Schutzstaffel, introduced in 1933 and created based on Swiss daggers of the 16th century, known as Holbein daggers. In appearance, it bore considerable resemblance to the SA dagger, adopted at approximately the same time. The blade bore the motto ‘Meine Ehre heißt Treue’ (‘My Honor is Called Loyalty’), which became one of the principal symbols of the SS. In the early years of the organization’s existence, the dagger was regarded not only as an element of uniform and a symbol of SS membership, but also as a personal cold weapon that its owner could use when necessary.

Early SS daggers produced before 1936 were distinguished by nickel-silver fittings on the hilt and scabbard, high quality of manufacture, and careful assembly of components. Scabbards typically featured an anodized finish, although original painted variants do occur. Blades most commonly bore a maker’s mark with the manufacturer’s name; early RZM stamps are occasionally encountered. From 1936 onward, the construction was gradually simplified; zinc, aluminum, and steel fittings for scabbards came into use, along with painted scabbards. Transitional stamps bearing the manufacturer’s logo and RZM code appeared, followed later by RZM stamps alone. Early daggers were produced in smaller quantities and typically saw longer periods of wear; consequently, specimens in mint and near-mint condition are extremely rare. Minor chips to the hilt and signs of use are quite normal for such pieces. Particular attention should be paid to restorations and later assembly; any such interventions are noted separately in the item description.

Robert Klaas ranks among the most sought-after manufacturers of German cold weapons by collectors. A characteristic feature of many Klaas products is their contrasting bluing and high quality of finish, thanks to which decorative elements often remain well-preserved to the present day. The firm operated in Solingen and produced dress and combat cold weapons, bayonets and fittings, and also participated in the manufacture of experimental samples for military industry. In 1944, the production facilities of Robert Klaas, like a significant portion of Solingen’s weapons industry, suffered damage as a result of Allied bombing.

The stamp ‘I’ on the reverse side of the lower crossguard indicates the SS distribution and inspection center in Munich. Such marking is characteristic of early daggers from the period 1933-1935 and represents an important feature of the initial SS dagger acceptance and distribution system.