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

(Verdienstorden vom Deutschen Adler, Kreuz V. Klasse mit Schwertern). Instituted 1 May 1937. (1943-1945 issue). Constructed of gilded bronze with enamels, consisting of Maltese Cross with white enameled arms joined together through the quadrants by NSDAP-style German national eagles clutching wreathed mobile swastikas on white enameled discs, the obverse overlaid across the three and nine o’clock arms by a crossed sword clasp executed in gilt, the twelve o’clock arm topped by a ribbed fan suspension with a loop retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked but with the physical characteristics of manufacture by C.F. Zimmermann, Pforzheim, measuring 44.94 mm (w) x 50.85 mm (h), weighing 25.3 grams, with minor flecking of enamels evident, a late-war example in near extremely fine condition.