Germany, Third Reich. An Order of the German Eagle, V Class Cross with Swords, by 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 a 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 with crossed swords, the twelve o’clock arm topped by a fan suspension with a loop retaining a period original ribbon, unmarked but demonstrating the physical characteristics of manufacture by C.F. Zimmermann, Pforzheim, measuring 45.05 mm (w) x 50.88 mm (h), weighing 26.0 grams, some flecking is evident to the enamels in addition to small chips and repairs around the centre of the swords, in near extremely fine condition.

