The Aesculap company was founded in 1867 in Tuttlingen, Germany. Originating as a small workshop for surgical instruments, the firm evolved into a globally recognized leader in medical technology. During the National Socialist era, Aesculap temporarily expanded its production scope to include political edged weapons, making Tuttlingen one of the few documented production sites for SA service daggers (Sturmabteilung) in the region of Baden-Württemberg.
Aesculap manufactured an estimated total of approximately 13,000 SA service daggers. This production volume grants these historical pieces a 1.5/5 rarity rating (comparatively common) among military antiques collectors. While not as scarce as smaller manufacturers, pieces in excellent, untouched condition with consistent patina remain highly desirable. These daggers feature the etched blade motto "Alles für Deutschland" and early-period construction details, including high-quality nickel or nickel-silver fittings.
The Aesculap trademark is highly distinctive: it depicts a snake winding around a staff, topped by a crown, often accompanied by a ring inscription reading "AESCULAP TUTTLINGEN." This motif reflects the company’s medical origins and is typically executed as a dark grey blade etch. Today, Aesculap-marked daggers represent a significant and unique chapter of Third Reich industrial history, making them excellent reference examples for any comprehensive blank weapons encyclopedia.
