This cross is die-struck from "900" silver, marked accordingly on the lower cross arm. Although lacking a maker's mark, its die pattern closely resembles the later-produced and issued knight crosses.

This original prototype exhibits a distinct Art Deco design for the ring support, differing from subsequent versions. The ribbon loop mirrors those found on the German Eagle Order crosses of the 2nd and 1st class, 1st type (further details available here: https://medalnetservices.com/articles/the-german-eagle-order-1st-type).

Featured prominently in Dietrich Maerz and George Stimson's book "The War Merit Cross 1. Class and higher Grades" (2017), this exact cross is documented on pages 335 and 336 as the initial design for the knights cross of the War Merit Cross.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to acquire a historical piece associated with one of the most intriguing military decorations of World War II.