Germany, Third Reich. An Honour Cross of the German Mother, Gold Grade with Case, by Wilhelm Deumer

(Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter in Gold mit Etui). Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Latin Cross with its arms joined through the quadrants by radiant 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 date 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 heavy card stock 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 maker marked “WILH. DEUMER, LÜDENSCHEID”, with a slotted beige felt medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, the decoration demonstrating minor flecking of enamels and loss of finish, in addition to moderate material fatigue of the case, in overall very fine condition.