Germany, Third Reich. An Honour Cross of the German Mother, Gold Grade with Case, by Forster & Graf

(Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter in Gold mit Etui). Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamel, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Latin Cross with its arm joined through the quadrants by stylized sun rays, the obverse with blue and white enameled arms, with a central white enameled disc bearing a black swastika, circumscribed by a raised inscription of “DER DEUTSCHEN MUTTER” (“TO THE GERMAN MOTHER”), the reverse bearing an etched institution daet of “16. DEZEMBER 1938” and a signature of the Führer, unmarked, measuring 36 mm (w) x 46 mm (h), accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a light wooden frame with a faux dark blue leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilt depiction of the award, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and slotted white felt medal bed, the former maker marked “FORSTER & GRAF, SCHWÄB-GMÜND”, measuring 50 mm (w) x 110 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), the case demonstrates minor material fatigue but the cross is in an overall near mint condition.