Germany, Third Reich. An Honour Cross of the German Mother, Gold Grade with Case, by Rudolf Souval

(Ehrenkreuz der Deutschen Mutter in Gold mit Etui). Constructed of gilded bronze with multi-coloured enamels, on loop for suspension from its period original ribbon, consisting of a Latin Cross with its arms joined through the quadrants by stylized rays, the obverse with blue and white enameled arms, bearing a central white enameled disc overlaid by a black swastika, circumscribed by an inscription of “DER DEUTSCHEN MUTTER” (“TO THE GERMAN MOTHER”), the reverse bearing an etched institution date of “16. DEZEMBER 1938” and a signature of the Führer, unmarked, measuring 36 mm (w) 46 mm (h), accompanied by its original presentation case, constructed of a pressed card stock frame with a faux dark blue leather exterior liner, the lid bearing a gilded and embossed depiction of the award, the interior with a white rayon lid liner and intact hinge cover, the former maker marked “R. SOUVAL, WIEN VII”, with a slotted white felt medal bed, closing with a functional metal spring catch with exterior stud release, measuring 50 (w) x 110 mm (l) x 20 mm (h), demonstrating flecking to the enamels and loss of gilt finish throughout the base metal resulting in tarnishing, in overall very fine condition.