Early SS Service Dagger by Robert Klaas with Hanger and Stamped SS Member Number

Both sides of the blade show wear and age, with spots, scratches, and indications of sharpening on the edges. The burnishing is largely gone from the motto. The ricasso bears the maker mark of the firm of Robert Klaas.  The early nickel crossguards have an uncleaned patina and verdigris. The reverse of the lower guard bears the SS district number of “III” as well as the owner’s SS member number of “11171”. The wood grip shows chips to the surface, particularly on the obverse top of the grip and on the lower reverse. The grip is inset with a nickel eagle which has fine detail and uncleaned patina. The enamel SS runes button is straight and it is without chips or cracks. The guards fit the grip tightly. The anodized scabbard finish shows age, wear, and speckling of the finish, but it is largely intact. The upper and lower nickel scabbard fittings have an uncleaned patina. The black leather belt hanger remains attached to the scabbard ring. The hanger leather shows age but it is supple and in very good condition. The nickel fittings of the hanger have an uncleaned patina and some verdigris.