Did I kill ingition system? (W126)

[Q]

Trying to restart my 85 380SE after replacing timing chain. Checked timing on cams/crank and also distributor to crank. I smell unburned fuel as I crank, but have not confirmed fuel pressure.

Here's where I pulled a dummy move. Before tear down, I pulled my plugs and did a compression test. It dawned on me after frustratingly trying to start this thing that I'm not supposed to have a live ignition not connected to the plugs as I run the starter for the test.

My test thus far has been to pull a single plug, connect it to it's ignition wire and then ground the plug against the block. I saw no spark at all. Can anyone point me in the direction I need to be headed? Have I certainly blown the ignition or just the coil? I've got a Fluke 76 that I can check my electronics with, but would like to know before I start if it's even worth checking and what to check for.

Thanks in advance!!