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Condition: Near Mint
Maker: Juncker
Pattern: Lazy 2
Base Material: Iron, Silver
Product Description: We are very pleased to be able to offer this cased Lazy 2 Juncker Knights Cross. This is an unbelievably desirable set that is very hard-to-find on today’s market. It could be the centerpiece of an advanced collection. The cross itself is a near mint example of a Juncker made Knights Cross, of the type known to collectors as the “Lazy 2.” The iron core retains all of its original factory matte black late war “bone-black” paint, with no wear. The frame shows only a very light patina, with a bit of atteractive pastel toning as well as nice original luster. The frame is maker marked with the textbook “Lazy 2,” and is also stamped “800” for the silver content. This cross retains the original suspension ring, with ends finished in the typical Juncker style. The suspension ring is also marked “800.” Approximately 75% of the original protective cellophane which housed this Knights Cross when it was packaged at the factory is still intact and is inside the case with the cross. Also included in the case is the correct original full length neck ribbon. The original case is also in near mint condition. The cross is beautifully displayed on an insert that shows no fading or damage. The hinge and push button work perfectly, and the silk lid lining and hinge cover remain undamaged, with only extremely slight age toning. It would be extremely difficult to ever obtain a better example of this legendary award. The overall condition of this Cased Lazy 2 Juncker Knights Cross with Cellophane is near mint.
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.
Known Manufacturers: Juncker, Steinhauer & Luck, Klein & Quenzer, Otto Schickle, C.F. Zimmermann, Gebruder Godet, Unknown “3/4 Ring”.
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