Germany, Third Reich. An Honour Cross of the German Mother, Silver Grade with Miniature and Case, by Rudolf Souval

(Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter in Silber mit Miniatur und Etui). Constructed of silvered 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 stylized rays, the obverse with blue and white enameled arms, bearing a central white enameled disc overlaid by a black swastika, circumscribed by an 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 a matching miniature, of identical construction and composition, on loop for suspension from its period original bow tie-style ribbon with horizontal pinback, the reverse maker marked with LDO code “L/11” for Wilhelm Deumer, Lüdenscheid, measuring 15 mm (w) x 20 mm (h), both secreted within an original presentation case, constructed of a pressed card stock frame with a faux dark blue leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a silvered depiction of the award, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, the former marked marked “RUDOLF SOUVAL, WIEN”, with a slotted white felt medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, measuring 52 mm (w) x 110 mm (l) x 18 mm (h), demonstrating flecking and loss of finish to both awards, in overall better than very fine condition.