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WWII CASED GERMAN CROSS IN GOLD INSCRIBED TO

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:1,250.00 USD Estimated At:2,500.00 - 3,500.00 USD
WWII CASED GERMAN CROSS IN GOLD INSCRIBED TO

KAPITANLEUTNANT PAUL JUST OF U-546. A very fine example of a WWII period German Cross in gold by the firm of Deschler und Sohn of Munchen. The 84 gram Cross has a beautifully enameled black Party symbol surrounded by a gold wreath & 8 pointed multi-rayed star. The reverse shows 4 rivet construction with a “1” clearly stamped on the outside of the wide pin. The reverse is hand inscribed, “P. JUST”. Paul Just joined the Kreigsmarine in 1936 & was part of the Olympia Crew. He attended officer training school from 1936 to 1938 & then was attached to the Luftwaffe as a flight crew observer in coastal command until early in 1941. After attending U-Boat Commander Training School, Just served aboard the U-6 & U-151, both school boats. In June of 1943, he assumed his first active duty combat command, the U-546. U-546 was lost on its 3rd combat patrol northwest of the Azores. 33 Officers & men survived & 26 were lost after being depth charged by US destroyers. Kapitanleutnant Just received the 1st & 2nd Class Iron Crosses, as well as this German Cross in gold while in command of U-546. The German Cross is held in its original, unmarked presentation case. CONDITION: enamel is undamaged & has a wonderful luster. Gold plating on wreath is nearly 100%. Silver has an attractive tarnish. Pin functions well. Case shows light overall wear & shows no notable damage. PROVENANCE: Lifetime Collection of Dennis Ottaway. (02-16015/BF). $2,500-3,500.