Finland, Republic. A 1941-43 Finnish Nordfront Cross, by Hopeateos

(Nordfrontkreuz). Constructed of silvered tombak with multi-coloured enamels, consisting of a Cross Pattée, joined together through the quadrans by a mobile swastika with its arms bearing the raised names of key engagements, the obverse of the cross with dark blue enameled arms, bearing a central circular oak leaf wreath surrounding a white enameled disc, bearing a central Finnish coat of arms topped by the flags of both Finland and Germany, the latter flanking dates “1941-43” and circumscribed by an inscription of “POHJOISRINTAMA - DIE NORDFRONT”, the reverse with a central threaded lug retaining an original but, maker marked “HOPEATEOS” for the Helsinki-based firm, measuring 34.40 mm (w) x 34.56 mm (h), weighing 19.5 grams, demonstrating minor flecking to the enamels with some loss of finish to the base metal, in extremely fine condition.