Brenda,   I am not sure how in depth you want to go into the history of your SS ring, It does merit further research as well as knowing the history behind the origins.   Based on what I am seeing, it looks as if you have a Type 2 ring box, which is a relatively rare type, rarer than the Type 1 ring box. The Type 2 boxes have the black and white striped border which appears along the edge of the lid. I can't tell by the images, but the black and white stripes should also appear around the lower portion of the box as well.    There is a relatively decent reference book about the SS Ring History to include Ring Boxes, Reproductions and a bunch of other information. The title and author are listed below, and the book is available at Barnes and Noble and some other stores.    The book itself is pretty good, the author on the other hand has had some "authenticity" issues in the past with some of his collection but this is not the arena to discuss this. You can look the author up and decide for yourself...   The SS Totenkopf Ring: An Illustrated History from Munich to Nuremburg by Craig Gottlieb   Looking forward to hearing what research you have been able to come up with. I may also have some reference material to research the recipient.   Best regards   Leigh  

Thanks for the advice, Leigh!  I had no idea what it was when I cleaned it, but you're right--I'll leave it as is now.  I'm currently having it researched and should know more by mid-January.  For the time-being, it looks like I might have an authentic piece, and I actually found the sides to the presentation box lid last night!  Such a learning process.  

Brenda,   Interesting ring and we look forward to further research on the recipient. I will just add as a museum professional,,  I recommend not to polish it any further. Removing the Patina and any surface material will significantly decrease the value.   Best regards   Leigh       

This place makes them. All branches. https://www.1944shop.com/contents/en-us/d232_01.html

Anything for the bucks $$$$..taking advantage of people.

Yeah I figured as much but was asked to ask about it. I saw online one similar sold with a image of a modern German assault rifle on the front, which was a total fake item as well. -Ryan

Fantasy item….   it’s so fantasy….it’s comical 

Found a photo of Princess Sophia of Prussia as Chefin of Königin Elisabeth Garde Grenadier Regiment Nr.3 

Winter of 44-45, think the Reichswald.

A friend of mine has this and is wondering if it is original, I've never seen anything like it. Thanks for any info. -Ryan  

An interesting Still of Ukrainian womenfolk offering the Salt and Bread and displaying Greek Icons, as a sign of good faith?? to the Italians, the, the Italians, I believe they had a little better relations with the civil populations no?  

In Afghanistan I believe