Rare original cased German Eagle Order 3rd Class (Deutscher Adlerorden) or 'Verdienstkreuz III. Stufe des Ordens vom Deutschen Adler'. The Order of the German Eagle was instituted on 1 May 1937 by Adolf Hitler. It was a diplomatic and honorary award given to prominent foreigners, particularly diplomats, who were considered sympathetic to Nazism. The Cross is based on the Maltese Cross with German Eagles at each corner carrying a swastika. The cross is made of gilded '900' silver, the ribbon ring is nicely marked with the silver content number. There is one very small damage to the enamel (left leg of the cross). De details on this medal are simply stunning. The medal is complete with it's original confectioned ribbon and comes in it's original red case of issue. The case is in used condition and does show some damage to the bottom, see photos. Nice original piece!