The Order of the German Eagle (Orden vom Deutschen Adler) was a significant state decoration of the Third Reich, established on May 1, 1937 by Adolf Hitler. This decoration occupied a special position in the National Socialist order system, as it was primarily intended for awarding foreign nationals and diplomats who had rendered service to the German Reich.
The creation of this order occurred during a period of intense diplomatic activity by National Socialist Germany. The regime sought to gain international recognition and establish relationships with foreign governments and influential personalities. The German Eagle Order served as an important instrument of this foreign policy and was awarded to prominent foreign personalities, industrialists, artists, and diplomats.
The 2nd Class with Star represented a high rank within the order's hierarchy. The order was divided into nine grades in total, with the second class with breast star being awarded only to persons who had rendered exceptional service to the German Reich. The combination of neck cross and breast star emphasized the particular significance of this award grade.
The firm Gebrüder Godet & Co. in Berlin was among the most renowned manufacturers of orders and decorations in the Third Reich. The company, which had existed since the 19th century, was known for its excellent craftsmanship and attention to detail. The pieces manufactured around 1939 demonstrate the high artistry of Berlin goldsmith workshops of this period.
The neck cross was made of gold-plated silver with a fineness of 900, which was documented by the corresponding hallmark in the suspension loop. The double-sided enameling in the characteristic colors of white and red-orange testified to the highest level of craftsmanship. The cross displayed the swastika in the center, surrounded by a wreath, while the arms of the cross had the typical curved shape. The eagle perched on the cross with outstretched wings symbolized National Socialist state power.
The accompanying breast star was also made of 900 silver, with the national eagles being gilded. The fine enameling and elaborate design with rays emanating from the center underscored the representative character of this decoration. The stamp on the reverse of the broad pin reading “900” guaranteed the material quality.
The presentation case itself was an important component of the order ceremony. The large red case with gilded national eagle and surrounding gold edge corresponded to official regulations for high-ranking decorations. The inner black velvet lining provided a dignified frame for the insignia, while the white silk lining with printed text documented authenticity and official origin.
The award practice of the German Eagle Order was strictly regulated. Each award had to be personally approved by Hitler, which underscored the political significance of this decoration. Recipients included foreign industrialists who maintained business relationships with Germany, artists who performed in the Reich, as well as diplomats and politicians from friendly or neutral states.
After 1945, all National Socialist orders and decorations were banned by the Allies. Wearing these awards was initially fundamentally prohibited in Germany. Today these objects have exclusively historical and collectible value and serve as testimonies to a dark period of German history.
The preserved award sets in their original cases are today important documents for researching the National Socialist order system and the foreign policy of the Third Reich. They document not only the craftsmanship quality of German goldsmith art of the 1930s, but also the instrumentalization of decorations for political purposes. Godet manufacture is particularly known among collectors and historians for its quality execution.
The study of such awards provides valuable insights into the diplomatic strategies and propaganda mechanisms of the Nazi regime, while also serving as tangible reminders of the period's complex international relationships and the moral compromises made by many foreign recipients who accepted these honors.
