1. Early Eickhorn SA ans SS daggers were individually fitted together in batches. The crossguards were stamped 1 through 9 or 10. Trays held the parts in slots so that once fitted together - such as grip to upper guards - they did not get mixed up. At some point they decided to quit doing this or some assemblers used tray with numbered slots for the crossguards. Who knows? Note that this is for ALL early Eickhorn SA/SS daggers.
2. TJ's book was written 35 - 40 years ago. TW's 13 years ago. The 200 number was based on the original order after Rohm was killed. Since then, it is obvious that many more than 200 were made. How many is a subject of debate.
3. Rare? not super rare like an early SS dagger by Gembruch or Jacobs. Desirable? Very!
4. Discounting the crude fakes or those with an RZM trademark, it all if the Himmler dedication. Most of those are genuine early daggers with a fake inscription added.
Dave
