Coins & Banknotes Public Auction 342

Medal WWII Order of the German Eagle Third Class without Swords (1943-45). A truly spectacular Third Reich award! White enamel & silver construction. Maltese pattern Cross with ea of the 4 arms of the Cross in white enamel with a fine silver border. German Eagles at ea cnr of the Cross carrying a swastika in a wreath, with a white enamel background. Age related patina to the silver components of the cross. To the top arm of the Cross is a semi-circular fan to which the suspension ring is attached. Suspension ring marked '900' for high silver content & '21' for noted maker of fine Third Reich awards 'Gebruder Godet & Co, Berlin' The suspension ring is then in turn attached to the neck ribbon by a 'fan' suspender device (large loop with 3 raised ribs). The 46mm wide white black & red neck ribbon is approx 540mm in length, slightly tapered & hemmed at both ends. Thin 220mm long red ribbon to ea end of the main neck ribbon for attaching the ribbon for wear. Some minor abrasions to the enamel, mostly to the reverse (as expected from wear). Tiny chip to the enamel to the very end of the right hand side of the six o'clock arms of the Cross.. Really only visible with a jeweller's glass, but had to be mentioned. This strikingly handsome award would make a sensational centrepiece to a Third Reich collection. (P)