'Deutsches Kreuz in Silber' (German Cross in Silver). The German Cross was introduced by Adolf Hitler on 28 September 1941 in two classes, Gold and Silver. The gold class cross was awarded to military personnel for exceptional acts of bravery or achievement in combat, the Silver class was awarded for distinguished acts of service in the war effort. Approximately 2500 German Crosses in Silver have been awarded against almost 26000 German Crosses in Gold. The German Cross was to be worn on the lower right breast of the service tunic or field blouse. This is the heavy weight version, maker marked with number '1' on the pin, indicating production by the company of 'Deschler & Sohn' in München.  All enamel of the cross is intact and showing only some minimal scratches caused by wear. The cross is in overall good truly worn condition. The silver finish on the wreath is showing some tombac colour coming through. The star is showing some verdigris, it is up to the buyer to decide to clean it or not. This one will look great when mounted on a tunic. Rare and desirable original German Cross in Silver!