Germany, Wehrmacht. An Eastern Peoples Merit Decoration, I Class Gold Grade with Case, by Wächtler & Lange

(Verdienstauszeichnung für Ostvölker, I. Klasse in Gold mit Etui). Constructed of gilded zink, the obverse consisting of an eight-pointed radiant starburst, bearing a central rosette set within a circular laurel leaf wreath, the reverse with a barrel hinge and tapering vertical pinback meeting a flat wire catch, the reverse of the pinback maker marked with Präsidialkanzlei code “100” for Wächtler & Lange, Mittweida, measuring 49.49 mm (w) x 49.26 mm (h), weighing 19.2 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a wooden frame with a faux black leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilded depiction of the award, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a slotted black felt medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, unmarked, measuring 68 mm (w) x 68 mm (l) x 25 mm (h), with total loss of gilt finish evident to the decoration, in overall very fine condition.