Awarded in Germany firstly on 1st May 1938 for all military personnel who were involved in the annexation of Austria to the German Third Reich. The move was the first military move to reintroduce into the Reich those considered native Germans living outside of Germany itself. The German Army crossed the border on 12 March 1938, without meeting any resistance. The action did not cause general alarm in the world community, as it seemed to be done by choice of the Austrian people who spoke German.

This example has gained a beautiful patina over the years, containing fine shades of blue and green – only time can cause this superb finish. The medals features are clear and crisp. The slightly domed lid box is in super condition with only the white silk binding covering the hinge being torn. The gold embossed emblem to the lid is complete and still bright.

A very nice example with beautiful patina.