Germany, DDR. A Rare Military Merit Order, II Class in Silver, with Ribbon Bar and Case

(Militärischer Verdienstorden der Deutschen Demokratischen Republik - II. Klasse in Silber mit Etui). Instituted 1982 by Willi Stoph. Constructed of silvered bronze with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon with pinback, the obverse consisting of a five-pointed radiant starburst, bearing a central silvered and enameled coat of arms of the German Democratic Republic, surrounded by an oak leaf wreath and situated above a pair of crossed swords, the reverse bearing a raised inscription of “MILITÄRISCHER VERDIENST-ORDEN” (“MILITARY MERIT ORDER”), above initials “DDR” (German Democratic Republic) flanked by laurel branches, unmarked, measuring 42.43 mm (w) x 48.10 mm (h), weighing 33.1 grams, accompanied by its original ribbon bar, measuring 30 mm in length and with a horizontal pinback, both secreted within their original two-piece plastic presentation case, the interior with a foam liner, unmarked, measuring 60 mm (w) x 120 mm (l) x 25 mm (h), a rare decoration in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: The Military Merit Order was established in 1982 by the Council of Ministers, chaired by Willi Stoph, to recognize outstanding contributions by members of friendly foreign armed forces in fostering cooperation with the East German NVA, and was not intended for issue to East German personnel themselves.