Original German WWII War Merit Cross With Swords Second Class Without Ribbon Unmarked-
This is an authentic German WWII War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern), instituted on October 18, 1939 by Adolf Hitler as a successor to the non-combatant Iron Cross of earlier wars. The version with swords was awarded to military personnel for meritorious service not directly related to combat. The version without swords was typically awarded to civilians or non-combatant military personnel for outstanding contributions to the war effort.
The decoration is constructed of bronzed zinc, featuring a Maltese-style cross with pebbled arms, with a central wreathed swastika on the obverse and the date 1939 on the reverse. This example shows honest age patina throughout, with areas of finish loss and oxidation typical of late-war zinc construction. The suspension ring remains intact but unmarked, as found on many wartime-produced examples. Comes without a ribbon.
A representative example of a classic WWII German award ideal for completing a medal display or collection of decorations.
