War Merit Cross 2nd Class Complete with Ribbon

Original WWII German War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords (Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse mit Schwertern) complete with period ribbon. Instituted in 1939, the War Merit Cross was awarded to military personnel and civilians for meritorious service contributing to the German war effort. The swords device denotes service performed under wartime or combat-related conditions.

The obverse features the date 1939 surrounded by a wreath, while the reverse displays the traditional central swastika design. This example retains its original dark bronze finish and is suspended from the correct red, white, black, and white ribbon.

The War Merit Cross was one of Germany’s most commonly awarded WWII decorations and remains a cornerstone medal in any German militaria collection.

Features

• Original WWII German War Merit Cross 2nd Class with Swords
• Correct wartime ribbon attached
• Bronze-finished construction
• Obverse dated 1939
• Combat-related “Swords” version
• Attractive dark patina
• Excellent display and collector piece

Condition

Very good original condition. The medal retains a pleasing dark bronze finish with moderate age wear and patina. Ribbon shows honest age, light fraying at the top, and minor storage wear consistent with wartime examples. No major damage or repairs noted.

Historical Significance

Established by Adolf Hitler on October 18, 1939, the War Merit Cross recognized military and civilian contributions to the war effort. The crossed swords version was awarded for merit performed under wartime conditions, making it one of the most recognizable German decorations of World War II.