Germany. Order of Merit, Commander Knights Cross

Germany. Order of Merit, Commander Knights Cross (Bundesrepublik Deutschland Verdienst Orden, Große Verdienstkreuz) Large gilt-edged red enamel narrow-armed cross with scroll and loop and gilt neck ribbon suspension ring; the face with a circular central gilt medallion imposed bearing a black eagle, wings outstretched; the reverse of identical design The Order is the highest honour that the Federal Republic of Germany bestows and was instituted by President Theodor Heuss on 7 September 1951 in box of issue with outer packaging made by Steinhauer & Lück of Lüdenscheid also has miniature stick pin within the box a stunning item