German Cross | Gold | Zimmermann '20' | Rare Late Case

Stunning Unissued Condition | Museum Quality

The German Cross in Gold manufactured by Zimmermann, and bearing the number '20' maker code number.  The obverse to the German Cross with black enamel swastika, gilt wreath and dark-grey coloured, anodised sun rays. The outer silvered rays highly polished.

Reverse to the German Cross with frosted-silver finish, four hollow rivets, maker number '20' stamped to the vertical, flat-tapered pin. Weight: Approximately 45g.

The rare late case in black leatherette. The case lined with white silk to the lid, and black flocking to the base. Typical of this late case is the simplified manufacture without any opening or closing mechanism.

Condition report: The cased German Cross is offered for sale in excellent towards near mint condition. Strikingly fresh and clean, and free from obvious wear, or indeed, much or any age darkening. The black enamel swastika is perfect, free from any damage or scratches. The frosted silver centre close to perfect, with just light age toning evident. The golden wreath complete with all mercuric gilt finish, and  highly polished bands. The grey anodised rays remaining in perfect condition, with 100% anodised finish.

Reverse with silver finish showing light age toning. The polished pin assembly fine with good polish remaining. Pin functioning.

The black leatherette case in excellent overall condition. No damage to the leatherette, or adverse wear, but some light storage age evident. The gold edge line now darkened with age. The inside to the case, fine with the white silk lid lining clean. The white silk centre band free from undue fraying. The base showing minimal wear at the point where the award  has been removed, and returned to the case. As is usual with this type of later case, the back does not have a hinge system, but relied on the black leatherette paper for opening and closing. These all break at the so-called hinge point.

Notes: Additional information in the Dietrich Maertz publication, The Awards Of The Heer Volume 1. Specific information on the rare late issue box shown on page 163.