Germany, Third Reich. A German Eagle Order, V Class with Swords, by C.F. Zimmermann

(Orden vom Deutschen Adler Verdienstkreuz V. Stufe mit Schwertern). Instituted on 1 May.1937. (Issued 1937-1945). Of multi-piece construction, composed of a Maltese cross in gilded bronze with white enameled arms, along with four German national eagles clutching wreathed mobile swastikas between the arms of the cross, with crossed swords superimposed through the centre of the obverse, the reverse plain, on loop for suspension, unmarked but physical characteristics indicate manufacture by C.F. Zimmermann, Pforzheim, measuring 45.01 mm (w) x 51.03 mm (h) and weighing 26.0 grams, on loop for suspension from period original ribbon, and in extremely fine condition.