German WWII Cased German Cross in Gold by Zimmermann

German WWII Cased German Cross in Gold by Zimmermann- This is the light (cupal) version of this badge. This is an outstanding example of this desirable badge, with most of the finish remaining to the rays and starburst. It looks fantastic! There is minor toning/wear to the back plate but the enameled swastika is excellent. All of the correct characteristics such as the 11:00 ray and '9' flaw of a Zimmermann-produced piece are evidenced. The pin is stamped with '20' underneath, also indicating a Zimmermann production. The reverse, which has four rounded hollow rivets, has toned and retains a conservative 95% of the finish. An excellent example of this desirable award! It is complete in its original black leatherette presentation box. This is in very good condition and shows only light wear. Overall, an excellent example.History: The War Order of the German Cross was instituted by Adolf Hitler on September 28, 1941. It was awarded to recognize the contributions of combat and noncombat military personnel who had previously received the 1939 I Class Iron Cross.The German Cross in Gold was the combat class and it was awarded for actions that were deserving of an accolade higher than the I Class Iron Class but did not qualify an individual for a Knight's Cross. As such, it filled the large gap between these two award grades. It should not, however, be considered a prerequisite for the Knight's Cross, as many Knight's Cross recipients only later received the German Cross.The German Cross in Silver was the non-combat class and it had the same award criteria as combat class. The German Cross in Silver is much rarer than the Cross in Gold, as only about 2,500 Silver Crosses were awarded, while about 26,000 Gold Crosses were awarded.The embroidered and cloth version of the cross was instituted to be worn during active combat service. The color of the crosses' wool backing indicated which branch of the armed service the recipient served with.