Complex metalloenzymes (e.g., nitrogenase, hydrogenase, urease) are synthesized starting from the apoprotein via several intermediates by the action of accessory proteins. The isolation and biochemical characterization of such intermediates is hampered by their low abundance and their lability. Here we describe a technique for efficient single-step purification of a hydrogenase precursor under mild conditions using a N-terminal Strep-tag II affinity peptide and a novel StrepTactin Sepharose matrix. The tag was fused to the large subunit of [NiFe] hydrogenase 3 (HycE) of Escherichia coli. No significant influence of the affinity peptide on maturation or activity of the protein was observed when the modified gene was integrated into the chromosome by homologous recombination. A tagged nickel-free precursor form of HycE bound quantitatively to a recombinant StrepTactin Sepharose column. More than 90% pure subunit could be obtained after elution with desthiobiotin. The procedure was shown to be more efficient than purification by immobilized metal affinity chromatography using a N-terminal His-tag. General advantages of the novel Strep-tag II affinity purification especially for applications with metalloenzymes are discussed.