Germany, Federal Republic. A German Cross in Gold, with Case, 1957 Version

(Deutsches Kreuz in Gold mit Etui). Constructed of a bronze alloy with multi-coloured layering, the obverse consisting of a an eight-pointed double-overlaid starburst pattern with a silvered and patinated finish, with a central silvered disc overlaid by a 1957-style Iron Cross complete with blackened core and a ribbed frame, within a circular gilded laurel leaf wreath, wrapped in ribbon and joined together at the bottom by a plaque bearing a date of “1957”, the reverse with six visible rivets securing the obverse features in place, with a raised barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a flat wire catch, unmarked, measuring 63.86 mm (w) x 63.73 mm (h), weighing 50.0 grams, accompanied by its period original presentation case, constructed of a wooden frame with a faux black leather exterior liner, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, with a slotted black felt medal bed, unmarked, measuring 108 mm (w) x 108 mm (l) x 30 mm (h), an early veteran’s replacement piece in extremely fine condition.