German Cross in Gold.Awarded for extreme bravery or repeated success in battle. Introduced 17 November, 1941 as an award ranked higher than the Iron Cross 1st Class, but below the Knight's Cross in precedence. Like the Knight's Cross, the soldier needed to have been awarded both grades of Iron Cross before he was eligible for the Cross in Gold.

As of 21 September, 1944, award of the close combat clasp in gold automatically resulted in the soldier receiving the Cross in Gold as well.

Worn on the right breast pocket.