The first official edged weapon of the Schutzstaffel (SS), approved in 1933, was designed based on 16th-century Swiss daggers known as Holbein daggers. In appearance, it closely resembled the SA dagger, which was introduced at nearly the same time. The blade bore the motto “Meine Ehre heißt Treue” (“My Honor is Loyalty”), which became one of the principal symbols of the SS. In the early years of the organization, the dagger was regarded not only as a uniform accessory and symbol of SS membership, but also as a personal edged weapon that its owner could use if necessary.

The RZM type represents a category of German daggers from the Third Reich period, manufactured under the supervision of the Reichszeugmeisterei, the Reich Equipment Office of the NSDAP. Items in this category were marked with a special RZM code and manufacturer number instead of the traditional maker’s trademark; this system was introduced to standardize and ensure quality control of Party edged weapons. RZM-type daggers are distinguished by their more uniform construction. This example bears the marking M7/91, indicating the specific manufacturer.

Carl Spitzer was located in Solingen and specialized in the production of daggers, dirks, and bladed weapons for various organizations of the Third Reich, including SS and SA units. The firm’s products were distinguished by high manufacturing quality and characteristic markings indicating the manufacturer’s name and place of production. Carl Spitzer products are of considerable collector interest due to their relative rarity and quality of craftsmanship.