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

(Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter 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 together through the quadrants by sun rays, the obverse with blue and white enameled arms, bearing a central white enameled disc overlaid by 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 original presentation case, constructed of a light wooden frame with a faux dark blue leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilded depiction of the award, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and partially-intact hinge cover, the former maker marked “CARL POELLATH, SCHROBENHAUSEN” with a slotted white felt medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, measuring 50 mm (w) x 112 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), demonstrating minor material fatigue to the case, in near extremely fine condition.