Original German WWII War Merit Cross 1st Class With Swords Marked “L15” By Friedrich Orth With Case
An original German WWII War Merit Cross First Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 1. Klasse mit Schwertern), awarded for meritorious service in connection with combat operations. This example is manufactured by Friedrich Orth, correctly identified by the “L15” maker mark stamped on the reverse of the pin.
The cross is zinc constructed, as typical for mid- to late-war production, and retains only traces of its original silver finish, which has largely worn away, leaving an attractive, even dark gray patina. The pebbled texture to the arms remains well defined, with crisp details to the crossed swords, wreath, and central swastika. The reverse retains its original vertical pinback assembly with hinge, pin, and catch intact and functional. The “L15” mark is clearly stamped on the pin. Overall age is consistent with honest wartime manufacturer, with no evidence of postwar cleaning or alteration.
Accompanied by its original black pebbled presentation case, featuring the silver War Merit Cross with Swords emblem on the lid. The interior retains its black felt base and white silk style lid liner. The original paper backing hinge is present but torn, as shown, an often seen condition on period examples. The case shows noticeable exterior wear, edge rubbing, and finish loss consistent with age, but remains structurally sound.
A solid, honest combat-awarded zinc example by a respected maker, complete with its original case, an excellent addition to any WWII German awards collection.
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