War Merit Cross 1st Class (without swords), maker's mark 4 (Steinhauer & Lück, Lüdenscheid), in case

War Merit Cross 1st Class (without swords), in caseThe cross, made of non-ferrous metal, is in excellent, unworn condition, with complete, frosted silver plating, a swastika, and polished edges. The pin bears the maker's mark "4" for the firm Steinhauer & Lück of Lüdenscheid. It features a typical pin system. Dimensions of the cross: 48,12 × 28,23 mm, weight: 14,31 g.
In its original black presentation case, the case is in very good condition with only minimal signs of use. The flat lid features a silver-stamped image of the award, positioned parallel to the edges at 4 mm intervals, with an embossed decorative border. The case has a black lining (typical of early cases by Steinhauer & Lück) and a white silk-lined lid. The push-button and hinge are magnetic. Case dimensions: 68,77 × 68,55 × 20,21 mm.
Early set in excellent condition!

1. 1. The Führer's Presidential Chancellery: She awarded the contracts for directly conferred orders. Pieces from this production received the manufacturer's number. "4".
   2. The German Order Manufacturers' Association (LDO): She regulated production for private sale through specialist retailers. These pieces were marked with the abbreviation “L/16” stamped.

Besides these marked pieces, there are also many completely unmarked pieces, or as a special case, pieces with both markings (4 and L/16).

• • The Iron Cross: Mass production of the 1st and 2nd class and the repeat clasps of both classes.
  • The Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross: S&L was among the licensed companies for the production of the RK.
  • Military insignia: Production of combat badges for the Army and, to a lesser extent, also for the Navy and Air Force.