Germany, Third Reich. A Rare Order of the German Eagle, II Class Merit Cross with Case, by Deschler & Sohn

(Verdienstorden vom Deutschen Adler Verdienstkreuz II. Klasse mit Etui). Instituted 1 May 1937. (1937-1943 issue). Constructed of silver with enamels, consisting of a Maltese Cross, the obverse with white enameled arms, joined through the quadrants by NSDAP-style German national eagles clutching wreathed mobile swastikas on white enameled discs, the reverse with a narrow barrel hinge and vertical pinback meeting a round wire catch, the pinback stamped with a silver content mark of “935”, otherwise unmarked but demonstrating the characteristics of manufacture by Deschler & Sohn, Munich, measuring 48.47 mm (w) x 48.21 mm (h), weighing 30.8 grams, accompanied by its original presentation case, constructed of a rigid 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 white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, the former bearing a gilt inscription of “ORDEN VOM DEUTSCHEN ADLER VERDIENSTKREUZ 2. STUFE”, with a fitted black velvet medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, measuring 10.5 cm (w) x 10.5 cm (h) x 2.5 cm (h), demonstrating an unspoiled patina through the decoration, a rare and early example in extremely fine condition.