Social Welfare Decoration 3rd Class (Ehrenzeichen für Deutsche Volkspflege III. Stufe), enamel and gilt bronze cross, Chr. Bauer, Welzheim, Germany, c. 1939–1945. Ribbon approx. 2 1/4 x 7 in., medal approx. 2 x 2 1/4 in.

Third Reich Social Welfare Decoration 3rd Class (Ehrenzeichen für Deutsche Volkspflege III. Stufe), instituted on May 1, 1939, to recognize merit in civil welfare, medical assistance, Red Cross relief, and Winter Relief (Winterhilfswerk) operations. Features a white-enamel Balkenkreuz mounted with a black-enamel Reich eagle holding a swastika within a gilded oak leaf wreath, with a small Red Cross emblem centered on the eagle's breast. The plain un-enameled reverse is stamped with the maker's mark "CHR. BAUER / WELZHEIM" at center. Complete with its original red silk ribbon featuring white side-stripes. Original maker-marked examples from recognized Württemberg manufacturer Christian Bauer remain desirable civil and political awards for collectors of WWII European militaria.

[Nazi Art, Nazi Propaganda, World War II] [Relics, Militaria] [Medals, Corps Badges, Badges]

The medal presents in very good overall condition with smooth, undamaged white and black enamel surfaces, light age-appropriate patina to the gilt metal borders, and clean original ribboning.