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

(Orden vom Deutschen Adler, Verdienstkreuz III. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 1 May 1937. (1939-1943 issue). Constructed of gilded silver with enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon with horizontal pinback, consisting of a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms, the quadrants joined by NSDAP-style German national eagles clutching wreathed mobile swastikas on white enameled backgrounds, the obverse with central gilt crossed swords, the twelve o’clock arm with a ribbed fan and integral suspension loop, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of manufacture by C.F. Zimmermann, Pforzheim, measuring 44.66 mm (w) x 50.24 mm (h), weighing 23.0 grams (inclusive of ribbon), accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a light wooden frame with faux red leather exterior, the lid bearing a gilt NSDAP-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, the interior with a white satin lid liner and intact hinge cover, bearing an inscription of “VERDIENSTKREUZ III. STUFE DES ORDENS VOM DEUTSCHEN ADLER”, with a depressed black velvet medal bed, opening with a functional metal snap button and a functional metal hinge, unmarked, measuring 70 mm (w) x 122 mm (l) x 24 mm (h), with minor flecking of enamels and loss of gilt evident to the cross, in overall extremely fine condition.