Germany, Federal Republic. A Close Combat Clasp, Gold Grade, 1957 Version visually-hidden each bearing an exterior inscription

each bearing an exterior inscription of “KRIEGS-VERDIENSTKREUZ 2

chipping near the "9" on the enamels

presenting as a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms and gold borders and ball finials

Footnote:  According to an order issued in June of 1937

the obverse featuring a central raised monogram of Duke Friedrich II set within a circular oak leaf wreath

Germany, Federal Republic. A Close Combat Clasp, Gold Grade, 1957 Version visually-hidden each bearing an exterior inscription(Nahkampfspange in Gold Ausfhrung 1957). Constructed of gilded bronze, the obverse consisting of an square oak leaf wreath, overlaid by a crossed bayonet and stick grenade, flanked on each side by four rays and four oak leaves with two acorns, the reverse with a barrel hinge and horizontal pinback meeting a flattened catch, unmarked measuring 95 mm (w) x 25 mm (h), missing its backplate, an early 1957 version in better than very fine condition.