German Cross
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The German Cross (German: Deutsches Kreuz) was instituted by Adolf Hitler in 1942 as an award ranking higher than the Iron Cross First Class but below the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. It was issued in two divisions: gold and silver (the color of the laurel wreath around the swastika), the former being an award for bravery, the latter being for distinguished service and was considered a continuation of the War Merit Cross with swords.
This award was actually more a star than a cross, and had a rather gaudy design, helping it gain its nicknames as "Hitler's Fried Egg", "patriotic rear reflector" and "Party emblem for the nearsighted". It had a diameter of 6.5 cm and was worn on the righthand pocket of the tunic. If a recipient was awarded both the silver and gold divisions, both of them could be worn on the uniform.
This award was also available in cloth form, which made for easier wear on the combat uniform. Far more awards in gold (combat) were made than in silver (support).
