Germany, Third Reich. A Rare Zelter Plaque, Gold Grade for 100 Years, with Case

(Zelter-Plakette in Gold für 100 Jahre mit Etui). Constructed of gilded bronze, the obverse bearing a raised and leftward-facing profile of noted composer and music teacher Carl Friedrich Zelter, circumscribed by name and situated above a semi-circular laurel wreath, the reverse bearing a raised inscription of “DER REICHSMINISTER FÜR VOLKSAUFKLÄRUNG UND PROPAGANDA FÜR VERDIENSTE UM DIE FÖRDERUNG DES DEUTSCHEN CHORGESANGES UND DIE PFLEGE DES DEUTSCHEN VOLKSLIEDES” (“FROM THE REICH MINISTER FOR PUBLIC ENLIGHTENMENT AND PROPAGANDA FOR SERVICE IN THE PROMOTION OF GERMAN CHOIR SINGING AND THE CARE OF GERMAN FOLK SONGS”), topped by a raised German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, unmarked, measuring 16.5 cm in diameter, accompanied by its original presentation case, constructed of a rigid card stock frame with a dark blue canvas exterior liner, the interior with a padded white satin lid liner and fitted white velvet medal bed, closing with a metal spring catch with exterior stud release, unmarked, measuring 23 cm (w) x 23 cm (l) x 2.5 cm (h), minor material fatigue is visible to the case and the lock no longer functions, while the plaque is a rare example of the highest grade of distinction in German choir music in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: Established in 1922 by Otto Boelitz, in his capacity as Minister of Culture, the Zelter Plaque provided state recognition to amateur choirs for meritorious contributions to German cultural life. Originally issued in grades of 50, 75, and 100 years, the classification system was eventually changed to Bronze, Silver, and Gold, reflecting the same longevity. The awards ceased to be issued during the early years of the Second World War, but were later revived in 1956.