Knights Cross of the Iron Cross by L/12

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

A Ritterkreuz des Eisernen Kreuzes 1939 by L/12 – C. E. Juncker of Berlin.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 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. To the reverse-top of the border it is LDO (Leistungs Gemeinschaft der Deutscher Ordenshersteller - Administration of German Orders Manufacturers) maker marked “L/12” (C. E. Juncker, Berlin) along with “800” (silver content designation). The black matte paint is in wonderful condition 98%+ and the silver border has beautifully patinaed with time! 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 marked “800”. Accompanying the cross is the appropriate tri-color (schwarz-weiss-rot) Knights Cross ribbon. The 15 ½ inch long ribbed ribbon is constructed out of a machine embroidered red, white and black rayon. The ribbon is in wonderful condition! Truly a gorgeous piece that every collector aspires to own!