Germany, Federal Republic. A Pour le Mérite with Oak Leaves, Superior Exhibition Example by Steinhauer & Lück, c. 1967

(Pour le Mérite mit Eichenlaub, Museumsstück). Constructed of gilded silver with enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with blue enameled arms joined through the quadrants by Prussian imperial eagles executed in exceptional detail, the three, six, and nine o’clock arms bearing a gilt inscription of “POUR LE MÉRITE”, the twelve o’clock arm bearing the gilt monogram of King Friedrich II of Prussia, the twelve o'clock arm bearing a semi-circular loop connecting to a gilded Oak Leaf clasp, the six o’clock arm stamped with a silver content number of “800”, otherwise unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of manufacturer by Steinhauer & Lück, Lüdenscheid, c. 1967, measuring 53.34 mm (w) x 53.28 mm (h), the Oak Leaf clasp measuring 19.97 mm (w) x 16.02 mm (h), weighing 30.4 grams, demonstrating minor flecking to the enamels, an exhibition example or collector’s copy of exceptional quality in extremely fine condition.