Germany, Third Reich. An Order of the German Eagle, V Class Cross with Swords, by C.F. Zimmermann

(Verdienstorden vom Deutschen Adler, Kreuz V. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 1 May 1937. (1943-1945 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze with enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms, joined together through the quadrants by NSDAP-style German national eagles clutching wreathed mobile swastikas on white enameled discs, the obverse overlaid across the three and nine o’clock arm with a gilded swords clasp, the twelve o’clock arm topped by a fan suspension with an integral loop retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked but demonstrating the physical characteristics of manufacture by C.F. Zimmermann, Pforzheim, measuring 45.06 mm (w) x 50.78 mm (h), weighing 25.8 grams, with minor flexing visible to the enamels in addition to a small scratch on the six o’clock arm just beneath the swords, in extremely fine condition.