Germany, Federal Republic. A Commander Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, with Case, by Steinhauer & Lück

(Komturkreuz des Verdienstorden der Bundesrepublik Deutschland, or Bundesverdienstorden). Instituted 7 September 1951. (1951-present issue). Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon with a horizontal pinback, consisting of a Cross Pattée, the obverse with red enameled arms, with a gilded centerpiece bearing a black enameled Federal Republic-style German national eagle, the reverse plain, unmarked, measuring 54.64 mm (w) x 56.75 mm (h), weighing 19.7 grams (inclusive of ribbon), with a boutonniere, constructed of gilded bronze with period original ribbon, the reverse maker marked “STEINHAUER & LÜCK, LÜDENSCHEID”, measuring 15 mm in diameter, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of heavy card stock with a faux blue leather exterior, the lid bearing a silver embossed Federal Republic-style German national eagle, the interior with a white satin-type liner and intact hinge cover, with a blue velvet medal bed, opening with a functional magnetic metal spring catch with exterior stud release and a functional magnetic metal hinge, the exterior with a maker’s mark of “STEINHAUER & LÜCK, LÜDENSCHEID”, measuring 75 mm (w) x 115 mm (l), in overall near extremely fine condition.