Germany. A Mint Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross, by S&L with Case, c.1944

(Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes 1939). Offered is an absolutely mint example of a Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross 1939 by Steinhauer & Lück of Lüdenscheid. This Knight’s Cross features a regulation late war B-Type silver frame that is marked with a micro “935” for silver content and “4” for “Steinhauer & Lück, Lüdenscheid” manufacture below the loop. It also exhibits all manufacturing characteristics and die flaws of a textbook B-Type Knight’s Cross, known by collectors as a late war manufacture Knight’s Cross by this maker. The numerals “1939” on the obverse, and “1814” on the reverse are identical to proven examples of the same period. It features a full loop suspension ring, along with a silver double-looped ring for ribbon suspension that is marked “800”. It measures 48.19 mm (w) x 48.34 mm (h), and weighs 29.7 grams. It is accompanied by an absolutely mint and period original full length Knight’s Cross ribbon. It is presented with its original case of issue constructed of heavy pressed card-stock with a lightly textured black faux leather (leatherette) exterior, a satin lined interior lid (coming loose - repairable), as well as a black velvet recessed medal bed and bed for the seating of the Knight’s Cross ribbon. The interior fabric hinge cover is fully preserved, with the spring catch and stud release fully functional, as well as the exterior metal hinge fully functional. Measuring 78 mm (w) x 146 mm (h). The exterior of the case depicts signs of wear from storage, however, the Knight’s Cross and ribbon is in absolutely mint condition. It is accompanied by a detailed certificate of expertise by predominant historian, Dietrich Maerz. (C: 235)