WWII German War Merit Cross with Swords

Kriegsverdienstkreuz 2. Klasse-1939

Origin: Germany

Period: World War II (instituted in 1939) 

Material: Silvered zinc ( typical wartime manufacture)

Design:

-Maltese-style cross with pebbled arms

-Central Swastika on the obverse

-Reverse Dated “1939” 

-Crossed Swords signify award for bravery or merit under combat conditions. 

-Intergrated suspension ring for ribbon wear

The War Merit Cross with Swords was awarded to military personnel and civilians who demonstrated bravery or exceptional service in direct supposr of combat operations, but not meeting the criteria for the Iron Cross. It’s one of the most commonly collected Third Reich decorations due to its historical importance.