Germany, Third Reich. A Rare Order of the German Eagle, Merit Cross with Breast Star and Case, by Gebrüder Godet

(Verdienstorden vom Deutscher Adler Bruststern mit Verdienstkreuz und Etui). Instituted 1 May 1937. (1937-1943 issue). A superb Order of the German Eagle Merit Cross set, including:

1. A neck cross, constructed of silver with enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross with white enameled arms joined through the quadrants by double-sided NSDAP-style German national eagle clutching wreathed mobile swastikas on white enameled discs, the twelve o’clock arm topped by a ribbed fan culminating in an eyelet and suspension loop retaining a period original full length of confectioned neck ribbon, the eyelet stamped with a silver content number of “900”, otherwise unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of manufacture by Gebrüder Godet, Berlin, measuring 49.40 mm (w) x 58.12 mm (h), weighing 27.9 grams, in extremely fine condition.

2. A breast star, constructed of silver with enamels, the obverse consisting of a six-pointed radiant star, overlaid by a central white enameled Maltese Cross joined through the quadrants by NSDAP-style German national eagle clutching wreathed mobile swastikas on white enameled discs, the reverse with two visible rivets securing the cross in position, with a barrel hinge and tapering vertical pinback meeting a rounded catch, the pinback stamped with a silver content number of “900”, otherwise unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of manufacturer by Gebrüder Godet, Berlin, measuring 65.45 mm (w) x 75.14 mm (h), weighing 45.3 grams, in extremely fine condition.

3. A presentation case, constructed of a heavy pressed card stock frame with a faux red leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilt NSDAP-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, the interior with a padded white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, the former bearing a gilt inscription of “ORDEN VOM DEUTSCHEN ADLER / VERDIENSTKREUZ MIT STERN”, with a depressed black velvet medal bed, closing with a functional metal snap button, unmarked, measuring 16 cm (w) x 24 cm (l) x 3.5 cm (h), demonstrating minor scratching to the exterior, in extremely fine condition.