Cased Knights Cross by Klein & Quenzer

German WWII > Awards and Medals > Iron Cross Series > Knights Cross

A Cased Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes 1939 by 65 - Klein & Quenzer A.G. of Idar-Oberstein. The Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross 1939 was the highest award made by Nazi Germany to recognize extreme battlefield bravery or outstanding military leadership during World War II. The award is constructed a die struck three-piece construction that has been soldered together. The single piece core is constructed out of an iron metal base that has been black painted. The two piece frame is constructed out of an “800” silver content base that has been frosted and polished. A final protectant lacquer was applied over the entire award. The obverse features a large pattée style cross that has a centrally placed embossed mobile swastika and an embossed “1939” (Hitler's re-institution date) date to the lower arm, which is all on a black base and surrounded by a silver ribbed/beaded row and flat outlying border. The reverse shows an embossed “1813” (the original institution date) date to the lower arm, which is on a black base and surrounded by that same silver ribbed/beaded row and flat outlying border. The 12 o'clock arm flaw is present. To the reverse-top of the border it is marked “800” (silver content designation). The black matte paint is in wonderful condition 98%+ and the silver border has a beautiful shine to it. The cross measures approximately 1 7/8 inches wide and tall (without the ring). A suspension loop is attached to the integral ring (Öse) and is also correctly “800” (silver content designation) marked and Prasidialkanzlei (PZK) number marked “65”. Accompanying the cross is the appropriate tri-color (schwarz-weiss-rot) Knights Cross ribbon. The 21 inch long ribbed ribbon is constructed out of a machine embroidered red, white and black rayon. The ribbon is in wonderful condition! The odd soil spot. All of this comes housed in its appropriate Knights cross case. The case is constructed out of a wood and pressed cardboard base that is covered in simulated grained black leather (Lederimitat). To the front is a round steel, spring loaded closure button. To the back is gilded steel, staggered, piano hinge. To the very top is an impressed exterior line border. The bottom interior of the case is constructed out of a pressed cardboard base that is covered in a black fibrous felt material that outlines the cross ring and ribbon. The interior top is constructed out of a silk material and has an underlying pad. It shows minor scuffs/hits and wear throughout. The case measures approximately 5 5/8 inches long, 3 1/16 inches wide and deep and 7/8 of an inch thick. Truly a gorgeous piece that every collector aspires to own! Now is your opportunity to acquire a complete set, don't miss your chance!