Germany, Third Reich. An Unusual Customs and Border Protection Long Service Award in Bronze

(Zollgrenzschutz-Ehrenzeichen in Bronze). Constructed of solid, patinated bronze, consisting of a Cross Pattée with pebbled arms, the obverse with a central NSDAP-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, within a laurel wreath, the reverse with an inscription of “FÜR TREUE DIENSTE IM ZOLLGRENZSCHUTZ” (“FOR FAITHFUL SERVICE IN BORDER PROTECTION”), unmarked, measuring 43.1 mm (w) x 43.4 mm (h), weighing 39.8 grams (without replacement ribbon), in mint condition.

Footnote: This die struck example is much thicker and heavier than standard crosses which weigh around 22 to 25 grams. We have never encountered such a piece in 30+ years of handling Third Reich memorabilia. This may have been a prototype, or a special presentation/purpose example.