POST WW2 WEST GERMANY ORDER OF MERIT FEDERAL REPUBLIC COMMADNER CROSS MEDAL

Offered is an original Federal Republic of Germany Order of Merit, Commander Grade Cross?

Large gilt-edged red enamel narrow-armed cross patt?e with scroll and loop and gilt neck ribbon suspension ring; the face with a circular central gilt medallion imposed bearing a black eagle, wings outstretched; the reverse of identical design; height excluding suspension ring 70.3mm (2.77) inches, width 59.54mm (2.34 inches); on original full neck ribbon with gilt metal fastening; most likely a 1960?s era piece by C. E. Juncker of Berlin.

The Order is the highest honour that the Federal Republic of Germany bestows and was instituted by President Theodor Heuss on 7 September 1951, second anniversary of the founding of the Federal Republic, ?with the desire to create a visible expression of recognition and thanks for meritorious men and women of the German people and from abroad for service in the fields of politics, socio-economics and intellectual work and for service in rebuilding the fatherland, and, as an award intended for all, for contributions to enhancing Germany?s reputation abroad?. A superb example.