The company Otto Simon, Stahlwarenfabrik was established in Steinbach, Thuringia, although its exact founding year remains undocumented. Initially specializing in the manufacture of high-quality hardware and general steel goods, the firm expanded its manufacturing scope during the Third Reich era into the political and military sectors, establishing itself as an authorized manufacturer of SA service daggers (Sturmabteilung) and SS contracts. Situated in Steinbach, this manufacturer underscores the prominent historical role of Thuringia as an independent, highly regarded hub for blade craft outside the dominant Solingen region.
In 1935, the factory was officially assigned the RZM code M7/48 for the manufacturing of NSDAP political organization daggers. Furthermore, the company held the license code 1204/##/SS, specifically designated for official Schutzstaffel dagger production contracts. Otto Simon manufactured an estimated total of only 3,000 SA service daggers. This limited production run grants these historical pieces an exceptional rarity rating of 4/5 (highly rare) among advanced military antiques collectors. These early daggers feature premium solid nickel-silver fittings and bear the iconic etched blade motto "Alles für Deutschland". Beyond political daggers, the factory's portfolio included standard domestic steel goods.
The highly distinctive trademark or logo of Otto Simon consists of a circular emblem styled to resemble an official wax seal. The text "OTTO SIMON" is placed along the upper arc, while "STEINBACH KR. M." runs along the lower arc, surrounding a dark oval or circle positioned at the absolute center. This detailed maker mark, embodying the manufacturer's Thuringian origin and commitment to quality, was typically etched onto the lower part of the blade near the crossguard. Today, surviving products from this maker represent a sought-after chapter in regional German edged weapons history, making them excellent reference pieces for a blank weapons encyclopedia.
