(Deutsches Kreuz in Gold). A rare and desirable recipient-attributed German Cross in Gold, constructed of cupal and bronze alloy with enamels, the obverse consisting of a double-overlaid eight-pointed starburst pattern, with a central silvered disc overlaid by a raised and black enameled mobile swastika, set within a circular stamped cupal laurel leaf wreath, wrapped in ribbon and joined together at the bottom by an institution date of “1941”, with red enameled rings trimming the wreath along both the inner and outer edge, the reverse with three visible rivets securing the obverse features in place, with a barrel hinge and tapering vertical pinback meeting a flat wire catch, the pinback marked with a Präsidialkanzlei code of “2” for C.E. Juncker, Berlin, notably hand engraved with an dedication of “OBERST REINHARD EGGER, 1. BATl. FSCH. RGT. 4”, above a possible receipt date of “3. 4. 1944”, measuring 63.22 mm (w) x 63.55 mm (h), weighing 64.2 grams, tarnishing and oxidation consistent with moisture exposure with consequent cleaning is evident, a rare attributed example in overall better than very fine condition.
Footnote: A noted Fallschirmjäger who held command of both 10 Kompanie, Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 1, and later Fallschirmjäger-Regiment 4, Reinhard Karl Egger participated in both the Battles of Crete and Battle of Monte Cassino. Egger received the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross (9 July 1941) and Oak Leaves (24 June 1944) in addition to the German Cross offered. Officially awarded to Egger on 24 February 1944, the disparity in dating likely indicates the time of physical receipt of the decoration.