Germany, Democratic Republic. An Order Of The Banner Of Labour, Ii Class,C.1975

(Orden Banner der Arbeit). Instituted in 1954, Revised in 1974. Type II (1974-1989). In bronze gilt with red, yellow and black enamels, measuring 39 mm (w) x 52.5 mm (h) inclusive of its integral ring suspension, intact enamels, II Class clasp affixed to its original ribbon, mounted to a five-sided brass suspension with pinback, accompanied by its 32 mm (w) x 11 mm (h) ribbon bar with II Class clasp affixed and pinback, extremely fine. In their hardshelled case of issue, red pebbled exterior, inside lid in a white satin-like material, red felt insert placed within the base incorporating a recessed medal bed and ribbon bar bed, measuring 80 mm (w) x 145 mm (d) x 29 mm (h), case also extremely fine.

Footnote: The Order of the Banner of Labour was given for "excellent and long-standing service in strengthening and consolidating the German Democratic Republic (GDR), especially for achieving outstanding results for the national economy". It was established on August 4, 1954 in one class, which was altered on August 8, 1974, dividing it into three classes, which also included a cash award: 1st Class: 1,000 East German marks, limited to 250 per year; 2nd Class: 750 East German marks, limited to 500 per year; and 3rd Class: 500 East German marks, limited to 1,000 per year. For collectives with up to 20 members, there were cash awards of 2,000, 3,500 and 5,000 Marks per member. The Order of the Banner of Labour was awarded to: Individuals and collectives in all three classes; Enterprises, Collective organizations (Kombinate), institutions and cooperatives in the I Class. A prerequisite was that individuals and members of collectives already had received other state awards. The Order could be given in any class several times, even to citizens of other countries. The awards ceremony took place each year on May 1st until 1989, presented by the Chairman of the State Council or on his behalf. A certificate was presented with the Order.