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Condition: Near Mint
Maker: Klein & Quenzer
Product Description: We are pleased to be able to offer this very rare and desirable cased Klein & Quenzer Knight’s Cross. This is an outstanding original set. The cross is nearly pristine, with all of the original factory applied matte black paint on the iron core. The swastika and dates are perfectly defined, with clean, smooth surfaces. The frame of the cross has light patina throughout, with appealing luster to the outer flanges. There is no sign of wear. The upper reverse of the frame, just below the correct K&Q style “doughnut” eyelet, is marked “800” for the silver content. The cross retains its original suspension loop, which is also marked “800” as well as “65 which is the PKZ code for Klein & Quenzer. The loop shows light patina, matching the frame. This cross is complete with its original folded ribbon. The ribbon is full length, and has bright original colors. The cross and ribbon are housed in a correct Klein and Quenzer marked case, which is a rare case to find. The case is in exceptional, near mint condition, with virtually all of the original exterior surface intact. The push button and hinge function flawlessly, and the case is nicely maker marked inside. The cross is beautifully displayed on the black velvet insert. The hinge cover and lining are intact, with just a small amount of light wear to the upper lining. This cased Klein & Quenzer Knight’s Cross is an incredible display object, that could be the centerpiece of an advanced collection. The condition rates as near mint.
Historical Description: The German Knigh’ts Cross of the Iron Cross. Instituted on September 1st, 1939, the Knight’s 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 Knight’s Cross and its subsequent grades was among Germany’s highest military decorations. The Knight’s Cross was worn around the neck, suspended by a black, red, and white ribbon. Every member of Germany’s armed forces was 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 Knight’s Cross was awarded 7,364 times during the course of the war. It is estimated that approximately 20,000 Knight’s Crosses were produced between September 1939 to May 1945.
The Knight’s 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 Knight’s Cross was strictly regulated. Only the companies granted approval by the government were legally allowed to produce the Knight’s Cross.
Known Manufacturers: Juncker, Steinhauer & Luck, Klein & Quenzer, Otto Schickle, C.F. Zimmermann, Gebruder Godet, Unknown “3/4 Ring”.
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