Germany, Federal Republic. An Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, Commander’s Cross with Case
(Großes Verdienstkreuz). Instituted 7 September 1951. A Leopold cross paty constructed of gilt bronze, the obverse centre bears a black enamel eagle with outstretched wings, the arms are red enamel with smooth gilt bronze edges, the reverse mirrors the obverse, with ornate suspension loop, measuring 59.60 mm (w) x 70.20 mm (h), on a red neck ribbon with black and yellow stripes, very fine; with original case of issue, a navy blue finely pebbled exterior with gilt border and eagle on lid, push button latch, the interior lid is off-white fabric with a gilt eagle and a blue felt medal bed, very fine.

