Condition: Excellent
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Product Description: This very scarce case for Knights Cross is an attractive and complete example, in excellent condition. The outside of this desirable case is covered with a textbook, black leatherette covering. There is some light wear to the exterior, mostly to the corners and edges, as well as some scattered light scuff marks on the top, but no major damage of any kind. The round, brass alloy push button closure with grommet is intact and functional. The rear of the case features an 8 part single hinge, with slight, typical age patina. The inside of this case for Knights Cross has a pristine, black velvet covered insert, on which the cross would rest. This insert has recesses for storing the cross, loop and ribbon, and shows signs of having contained a cross in the past. The inside of the lid, as well as the hinge area, are covered with white artificial silk. This artificial silk shows expected light age toning, but no holes, tears or other damage. This original case would be a perfect accompaniment to a Knights Cross for display.
Historical Description: The German Knights Cross of the Iron Cross. Instituted on September 1st, 1939, the Knights Cross has come to be known as one of the most recognized awards of World War Two. Awarded for acts of extreme bravery during combat, or successful leadership resulting in extraordinary success, the Knights Cross and its subsequent grades was among Germany’s highest military decorations. The Knights Cross was worn around the neck, suspended by a black, red, and white ribbon. Every member of Germany’s armed forces were eligible to be awarded the Knights Cross, provided the requirements of awarding had been met. The awarding process, determining whether or not a soldier was worthy of the award, began as a recommendation at the company level. This recommendation was then reviewed and either approved or denied. Upon approval, it would continue up the chain of command and end with Adolf Hitler, himself, making the final judgment. The Knights Cross was awarded 7,364 times during the course of the war. It is estimated that approximately 20,000 Knights Crosses were produced between September 1939 to May 1945.
The Knights Cross was constructed of three separate pieces, a core and two outer frames. The core, made of iron, zinc, or brass, was placed between the two outer silver frames and delicately hand soldered together. The Cross was then suspended by a large loop through the frames top eyelet. A ribbon of black, white, and red was then threaded through the suspension loop. The production of the Knights Cross was strictly regulated. Only the companies granted approval by the government were legally allowed to produce the Knights Cross.
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